A new electric street-washing machine is expected to reduce the time needed to clean Mdina's streets by around 60%, while improving the maintenance of the historic city's narrow and irregular streets.
The machine has been provided to the Mdina Local Council by the Cleansing and Maintenance Division and is specifically designed for street washing in urban areas with restricted access.
It was unveiled in Mdina by Minister for Local Government and Public Works Alison Zerafa Civelli, who said the machine was an example of cooperation between the ministry, the Cleansing and Maintenance Division and local councils to improve public services.
"This is a concrete example of how collaboration between the Ministry, the Cleansing and Maintenance Division, and Local Councils is translating into action that results in cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable public spaces for our residents and visitors," Zerafa Civelli said.
The compact machine is suited to Mdina's particular characteristics, including its narrow streets and limited access for larger cleaning equipment. The city welcomes around 2.5 million tourists each year.
Cleansing and Maintenance Division Director General Jude Zammit said the machine would improve the cleaning process by combining street sweeping with washing.
The machine is used after sweeping and has a 210-litre water tank. It can reach areas beneath pavements and allow for more targeted cleaning in places where it is needed.
Before the machine was introduced, cleaning operations relied on a sweeper machine combined with manual labour. The washing function will also help remove residues that could attract insects, particularly during the warmer months.
The machine is electrically powered and can operate for between six and eight hours before requiring a recharge. It does not consume fuel or produce emissions during operation and is quieter than conventional machinery, making it particularly suitable for Mdina, which is known as the Silent City.
During a visit to Mdina, Zerafa Civelli, Zammit and Mdina Mayor Peter Joseph Dei Conti Sant Manduca observed the machine in operation and how it will be used as part of the city's cleaning and maintenance programme.
The mayor said the machine would be an important tool in improving cleanliness in Mdina and maintaining a clean and well-kept environment for residents and the thousands of visitors who visit throughout the year.
Because of Mdina's historic character, the machine will be operated by trained personnel using appropriate pressure settings to avoid damaging sensitive areas.
Certain parts of the city, including corners, steps and other restricted or sensitive spaces, will continue to require manual cleaning.
The introduction of the machine is intended to complement existing cleaning operations while making street washing more efficient in one of Malta's busiest tourist destinations.