Transport Minister Joe Mizzi today launched new Gozo public transport routes, which will start coming into effect as from Sunday 21 June.

The routes were draw up after several consultation meetings were held with the public and local councils.

The new routes will cover some 96,400 extra kilometres a year. Buses will increase from 10 to 14. There will also be changes or extensions to six existing route and the frequency of eight of the routes will be increased. Bus stops have increased by 34 for a total of 335.

Mr Mizzi said the public transport service in Gozo will be strengthened thanks to these changes. Gozitans and tourists will be better served, especially during the summer months.

As part of an information campaign the Transport Ministry is distributing an information booklet to all Gozitan households, explaining the changes and the new routes and bus hours.

He noted that several changes have been announced in the past weeks, including the reduction of the weekly bus fare by €2 for blue badge and yellow disability badge holders. It has also been announced that 40 new buses will be delivered to Malta in July while 102 others will also join the fleet during the summer months.