Transport Malta gave an explanation as to why much of the country found itself in gridlock on Monday morning, some 10 hours late.

Motorists reported being stuck in heavy traffic particularly around the Marsa junction throughout Monday morning.

“This morning's traffic delays were due to several accidents that occurred on the Marsa Hamrun Bypass ranging from 05:00hrs to 10:00hrs. A total of nine collisions occurred around the Marsa-Hamrun bypass,” Transport Malta said in a Facebook post.

The first incident which involved a Taxi and a pedestrian occurred around 05:00hrs. Transport Malta said that it promptly coordinated with emergency services, leading to the closure of one carriageway which led to more disruptions towards the southbound direction until the road was safe and clear to reopen.

“Further incidents, including another collision at 08:55hrs, which involved a pregnant women led to delays this time for traffic headed to northbound directions,” it said.

As part of its efforts to manage traffic in emergency situations, Transport Malta said that it increased Enforcement Officers in affected junctures, such as the Qormi-Mriehel roundabout, as well as used its Traffic Control centre, to restore traffic to normality.