Work On Various Reservoirs To use Rainwater For Irrigation

Aug 20 2024

During the summer, Department of Public Works employees are busy maintaining and cleaning several reservoirs to ensure rainwater can be collected for irrigation and other uses.

During a visit to the San Klement reservoir in Żejtun, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett, along with Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia, observed the essential work being done on this site.

Minister Bonett highlighted the importance of sustainable infrastructure for water storage, noting that collecting rainwater is crucial for Maltese and Gozitan farmers who rely on it for irrigation. He emphasized the need for summer maintenance to minimize winter flooding risks and optimize rainwater use.

Parliamentary Secretary Farrugia commended the Public Works Department for their invaluable summer efforts in preparing for the winter season, stressing the significance of maintaining reservoirs to support agricultural needs.

Architect Mario Ellul explained that the reservoir, with a capacity of 2,500 cubic meters, is being cleaned to remove accumulated debris. Preparations are underway to apply a new coating to prevent water loss.

Also present were Żejtun Mayor Joan Agius and Deputy Mayor Raymond Caruana.

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Instagram Testing Out A Vertical Profile Grids

Aug 20 2024

Instagram is reportedly testing a significant change to user profiles that could impact your posting strategy. The platform is experimenting with replacing the traditional square-shaped thumbnail images in the profile grid with vertical rectangles.

This shift, currently being tested with some users, aligns the profile grid more closely with the vertical format used in Reels and Stories.

Instagram’s Head, Adam Mosseri, explained that most of today’s uploads are vertical, making the square format outdated.

While the transition may frustrate users who have carefully curated their grids, it aims to better accommodate modern content formats. Mosseri acknowledged the challenge, noting that squares date back to when Instagram only allowed square uploads, a restriction lifted in 2015.

This redesign, or a version of it, is expected to roll out to all users soon, as indicated by Mosseri in a recent Q&A session. Instagram spokesperson Christine Pai confirmed that this change is still in the testing phase, and user feedback will play a crucial role in the platform’s final decision.

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No Mpox Cases Registered In Malta, Health Ministry Says

Aug 20 2024

Malta has not reported any mpox cases this year, according to the health ministry’s statement on Monday.

The ministry advised travellers to countries affected by the virus to take precautions to avoid infection. Health authorities are actively monitoring potential cases and have enhanced surveillance systems to detect and respond to any suspected mpox cases.

The ministry emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and has been raising public awareness about recognising mpox symptoms. This announcement comes shortly after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency.

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, presents with symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and large, boil-like skin lesions.

The ministry noted that people living in or traveling to affected regions, and those in close contact with affected communities, face a “moderate” risk of contracting the virus, while travellers without close community contact are at low risk.

The ministry urged the public to avoid close contact with individuals displaying rash-like symptoms, as well as objects or materials used by those diagnosed with mpox. Frequent hand washing and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitiser were also recommended.

Mpox, first identified in 1970, spreads through animal and human contact. The 2022 global outbreak, particularly severe in Europe, led to a WHO emergency declaration.

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Traditional Run With Statue Of St. Helen At Birkirkara Festival

Aug 19 2024

The traditional run with the statue of Saint Helen at the iconic Birkirkara festa took place yet again to continue on it’s unique legacy.

The festival, dedicated to St. Helena, the patron saint of Birkirkara, culminates in a grand procession through the town’s streets. The centerpiece of this procession is the statue of St. Helena, a revered symbol of faith for the community.

However, what sets this event apart is the thrilling moment when the statue is carried at a run by a group of dedicated men, a tradition that has been passed down through generations.

The run with the statue of St. Helena is a powerful expression of faith, unity, and tradition, bringing the entire town together in a shared celebration.

The traditional run is also a reminder of the enduring power of tradition in bringing communities together and preserving their shared history for future generations.

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