While many might justifiably think that Malta’ proposal for a metro is just pie in the sky, the government has not yet ruled out such option, saying a final decision on the matter was due in the coming weeks.

The issue was recently raised in parliament by Opposition MP Alex Borg who asked Transport Minister Chris Bonett for an update on the metro project.

In October 2021, government had unveiled a proposal for a three-line underground metro system aimed at addressing the nation’s escalating traffic congestion and enhancing public transportation. The proposed network encompassed 35 kilometres of track and 25 stations, extending from Buġibba in the north to Cospicua in the south, with additional lines connecting areas such as Birkirkara, Valletta, Mater Dei Hospital, Sliema, and St. Julian’s. The project was estimated to cost €6.2 billion and projected to take 15 to 20 years to complete.

However, within a few months the project was placed on the backburner prompting criticism that it was just a general election stunt.  Furthermore, the changes at the helm of the transport ministry as well as the fact that no financial allocation was placed in successive budget, conveyed the message the project had been definitely shelved.

In his reply, the transport minister pointed out that the evaluation to establish the best financially feasible mass transport system was still underway. Such evaluation which comprises an analysis  of the studies carried out so far along the years was due to be completed within weeks, the minister said.

We have to establish once and for all which is the best system for Malta, which will will make financial sense without placing any burden on government’s budget, he said.

The transport minister pledged to hold a “genuine” consultation process to reach the best possible decision.

Meanwhile, the situation on the roads has gotten worse with little or no tangible process except for junction improvements and infrastrecutral projects such as the Msida creek which is underway. The most recent proposal is for car owners to forfeit their driving licence for five years in return for €25,000. However, the proposal got mixed reactions with criticism that this was a cosmetic measure which would not have a tangible effect after all.