We finally got out first look at where metro stops may be situated across the island. The designers behind the potential metro, announced by Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg and Prime Minister Robert Abela, have unveiled where the transportation system will run from. Of course, the introduction of these metro stations and railways give a new look to the landscape of Malta, something the Prime Minister addressed in the announcement.
The metro is set to run from Bugibba to Pembroke, Birkirkara to Valletta and Mater Dei to Cospicua. The Prime Minister stated that 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.
The project is expected to take 15 to 20 years to fully construct, costing around €6.2 billion. A first phase would however be operational within five to eight years, and would cost an initial €3.9 billion. The metro is also set to be completely underground except for a short area between Naxxar and Bugibba.
The Transport Minister stated that for the first time, a government-commissioned proposal which looks beyond elections and could span multiple legislatures to truly plan for the future generations is being put forward. Acknowledging the high level of private car usage in Malta, Borg said the metro offers an alternative and could promote a culture shift.
The metro network is not set to 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.
The prospect of an underground metro was criticised by the ADPD, stating that this would lead to further pollution and that a land metro tram hybrid would better address this issue.
For more information, visit the official Facebook page or the official website for the Metro.
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Photo Source: Malta Metro FB