The government has officially unveiled the proposal for a three-line underground metro system for Malta, stretching 25 stations all across the island. The project would take around 15 to 20 years to fully construct, costing around €6.2 billion, revealed London-based consultants Arup Group. A first phase would however be operational within five to eight years, and would cost an initial €3.9 billion. Incorporating three lines which cover a total of 35km of track, the metro will be completely underground except for a short area between Naxxar and Bugibba.
It will run from Bugibba to Pembroke, Birkirkara to Valletta and Mater Dei to Cospicua, with stations located at hubs across Malta’s main urban areas. The network will not extend to Gozo after studies concluded that there needs to be a population increase of 50,000 to make the link viable to the sister island. Prime Minister Robert Abela spoke about the study allowing a mature and informed discussion on mass transportation, which includes whether or not the country is ready to undertake such a spanning project.
Abela said that this proposal shows that Malta is ready for ambitious reforms and that the government will continue to lead an honest discussion with the goal of understanding what future our children will wish to inherit. Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg revealed that the studies were aimed at prompting discussion around project related issues. These include understanding and justifying the cost and time it could entail.
Borg stated that for the first time, ‘a government-commissioned proposal that looks beyond elections’ and which ‘could span multiple legislatures to truly plan for future generations’ is being put forward. Borg acknowledged the high level of private car usage in Malta, stating that the new plan would offer alternatives and promote a culture shift. In the meantime, upgrades to road networks remain necessary, having led a €700 million revamp to Malta’s road network in recent years.
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Photo Source: Ian Borg FB, Robert Abela FB, MaltaGov FB
