Marsaxlokk Dredging Project Announced

The Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said, have announced the commencement of dredging works in Marsaxlokk aimed at strengthening port safety and accessibility.

Marsaxlokk is the largest traditional fishing village in Malta and plays a crucial role in this sector. Over the years, the accumulation of rock in the port fairway has created difficulties for the entry and exit of fishing vessels. These works will improve access for both small and larger vessels, enabling easier movement in and out of the harbour. This will reduce the risk of vessels striking the seabed, improve manoeuvrability, particularly during rough weather, and provide safer mooring conditions.

Minister Chris Bonett explained that this work is necessary to ensure that fishermen can access the port safely with their boats. “For several years, fishermen have faced damage due to material that accumulated on the seabed and began causing harm and affecting their vessels. Through the dredging works we will carry out on the seabed, we will clear this fairway which is so important for the sector,” Minister Bonett said.

The Minister added that the sand collected from the seabed will be used in another area within Marsaxlokk to extend the beach at Għar Aħmar, ensuring that the works are carried out sustainably while also leaving a positive impact on residents in another popular area of Marsaxlokk. “We are undertaking this project following discussions with fishermen, during which we understood their challenges, and we are therefore taking action to improve their operations,” Minister Bonett concluded.

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said emphasised that the project is the result of extensive consultation and coordination with fishermen and the relevant authorities. “This project represents an important investment in the fisheries sector and for our fishermen who use Marsaxlokk Harbour. We listened to their concerns after they experienced damage, particularly regarding safety and temporary relocation during the works, and we ensured that all necessary measures are taken so that their operations are not interrupted and they can continue their work without disruption.”

In addition to improving access, the works will help reduce damage caused to ropes, chains and fishing equipment, ultimately leading to lower maintenance costs for fishermen. It will also facilitate smoother day to day operations, including logistics related to fish sales, particularly for the Sunday market, local restaurants and export.

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Photo Source: DOI - Daniel Scicluna