Prime Minister Robert Abela gave some information regarding the mass transport project being studied during an interview on party media last Sunday.

The Prime Minister indicated that while the original studies were for a below ground project, now they are looking at having parts underground, and parts overground, including some above as though when having a flyover. Though he eased people's minds by saying that they would not pass over people's property.

He emphasised that studies are still taking place, including into whether the government would, for instance, be able to offer the service for free or not, what the public service obligation would be etc.

The cost of the project would be €3bn, he said, adding that it would take 15-20 years to implement.

It would clearly, if the government decided to go ahead with the project, be a long-term solution, which means that in the short to medium term, actions to tackle traffic will definitely be required.

He explained the reason for the government's caution when it comes to this mass transport idea. "Saying yes to something which you do not know what the impact will be on the country's finances is dangerous as if this project is done badly, the country's finances would collapse." So it easy to understand the importance of carrying out all the studies needed. The Prime Minister's message also seems to indicate a more cautious tone when it comes to the project than was seen in the past.

The Finance Minister had previously said: "You cannot have an investment as large as that and then people would still use their cars," and aired concerns about its sustainability from a financial aspect. The minister had also reportedly said that he would only start believing that a mass transit system in Malta is possible when both parties agree to penalise car use through 'punitive measures'.

At the same time, however, the government has consistently been against the idea of introducing disincentives.

Malta needs a mass transport project, but the key is finding the right model.

The metro option is costly and will require detailed studies so that a decision can be taken. This must also include serious thought on how, once such a system would be set up, to convince people to leave their cars at home.

At the same time, the government should not rule out other mass transport options that have been mentioned which might be less costly.

But some form of system is needed. Both the government and the Opposition would need to get on the same page of the model that will be chosen.

At least there is some movement with regards to long-term plans to tackle the traffic scenario.