ADPD - The Green Party on Saturday criticised the government's transport policy, arguing that persistent bus overcrowding proves public transport is being neglected in favor of private vehicles. Chairperson Sandra Gauci emphasised that a truly holistic, efficient, and affordable transport system requires prioritizing public transit on the road network.
To achieve this, the party advocates for the implementation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), which would feature dedicated lanes, more direct routes, and increased service frequency. These measures are presented as cost-effective, time-efficient alternatives to ongoing road-widening projects, which the party argues fail to address core congestion issues. They contend that as long as buses remain trapped in traffic alongside private cars, efficiency will remain unattainable.
The statement further highlights the impact of overtourism on national infrastructure, urging that transport planning be integrated with sustainable tourism and urban development strategies. Regarding alternative proposals, the party dismissed the idea of subsidized taxi services as a "hollow solution" that would only increase vehicle numbers and congestion. Instead, they champion a shift toward making public transport the most convenient option, complemented by safe infrastructure for bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters.
The party cautioned against relying on technological or artificial intelligence-based "magical solutions" for traffic management. While technology has its uses, they argued it cannot substitute for genuine political courage or the necessity of reducing private car dependency. According to ADPD, Malta requires leadership willing to make bold, long-term decisions that prioritize people over cars, even when such transitions prove difficult. The party concluded that sustainable mobility demands a shift away from empty slogans toward a comprehensive, human-centric transport model for the greater good.