Updated | Tram services among alternative transport means being studied

The government has launched a call for offers for studies that include ‘best options analysis and cost benefit analysis’ on the possibility of a tramline in Malta.

The best offer for the study will be chosen in the coming days, and will examine the options and costs of designing, developing and operating a tram service on the island.

Speaking at an event to mark European Mobility Work, Transport Minister Joe Mizzi said Transport Malta and its stakeholders will be benefitting from €1.9 million in EU funds to finance urban mobility plans in Valletta.

Mizzi also announced that the government will be launching a call for offers – to grant a concession – to interested parties who want to take part in a car-sharing scheme on a national level.

“The concession is open to transport operators and private companies to invest and operate the service on a national level,” Mizzi said. “Basically, the fleet of vehicles will be granted exclusive parking in public car parks. The service must be offered as soon as possible.”

Transport Malta also plans on offering a concessions for bicycle sharing and e-bike sharing services. The service must be spread all over the island.

In a reaction to the minister’s statements, the Nationalist Party said opposition leader Simon Busuttil had already recommended a tram system to alleviate the traffic problem and to provide a direct link between Malta and Gozo.

The PN said it was pleased to see the government’s reaction but noted it took Mizzi three years of being stuck in ‘a traffic jam of ideas’ to commission a study on the viability of a tram system.

Once again, the PN said, the opposition had shown it was the only party with a vision for the country and able to implement that vision.