Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Ian Borg visited the Għeriexem project, which has reached its final stages, where storm water culverts are being built in order to address the problem of water flooding in this area.

In his speech, Minister Ian Borg spoke about the importance of such works, which are more often than not less appreciated, since they are not found on the surface of the main road, yet their importance is of the essence for the quality of life of the residents of the affected areas.

“With courage, we have addressed a problem that was disregarded for a long time and which no one wanted to address. But for us, the safety of the people comes before any other interest. As always, we are committed to ensure that we have another infrastructure project of the highest quality and that it is properly delivered to the residents here,” said Minister Ian Borg.

Minister Borg praised Infrastructure Malta, who is leading this project, and said that such projects are made possible thanks to the continuous hard work of both manual employees and professionals, such as the various engineers, experts and draughtspersons.

In the meantime, to consolidate the benefits of this project and to alleviate long-standing flooding difficulties in this area, Infrastructure Malta is now also reinforcing part of the underground stormwater catchment system between Il-Ħaddiem Avenue, Tat-Tabija Road, Għeriexem Road and Għajn Qajjet Road (Mtarfa Bypass).

Through this separate upgrade, the agency is laying a half-kilometre stretch of new one-metre wide pipeline, instead of an older narrower culvert, whilst improving the efficiency of some of the existing catchments. This system will complement the new stormwater system forming part of the Għeriexem Belvedere Project, to channel rainwater from several streets into nearby natural valleys and watercourses.