LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Maltese government has unveiled its much-anticipated ‘Reshaping Our Mobility’ plan, aiming to reduce traffic congestion over the next 18 months. The government, however, has opted not to implement any direct measures that would disincentivise the use of private cars. Instead, the strategy focuses exclusively on encouraging the use of alternative transport options.
Among the key measures revealed, the most notable is the ‘Surrender Your Licence Schemè, which offers motorists 25,000 to give up their cars and licenses for five years. While this initiative garnered media attention ahead of the announcement, its reception has been mixed.
Suzanne Maas, climate campaign coordinator at Friends of the Earth Malta, expressed skepticism, arguing that a balanced approach-combining both incentives and disincentives-is essential to effect meaningful change in transport habits.
However, the government’s strategy appears to prioritize incentives over punitive measures, likely driven by political considerations with the next general election approaching within two years. Critics argue that without any disincentives to private car use, such as road pricing or stricter parking regulations, the impact of these measures could be limited. They contend that many motorists will continue to rely on cars as the most convenient option, particularly as public transport remains affected by the same traffic congestion.
The plan itself is structured around seven pillars: vehicle incentives, a 24-hour economy, parking, public transport, road works, alternative mobility, and remote working.
Key components of the vehicle incentives pillar include the ‘Surrender Your Licence Scheme,’ as well as schemes offering 6,000 over four years for young people (17+) to forgo a full driving license until the age of 21, and for those who opt to use a scooter instead of a car. The plan also proposes grants for purchasing low-powered motorcycles and reforms to vintage vehicle licensing to reduce abuse.
Other measures focus on easing traffic congestion and promoting off-peak activity, including extending public service hours, introducing park-and-ride services in various locations, and expanding the bus network with new routes and increased frequencies. Additionally, the government will explore initiatives to boost cycling and walking as alternative mobility options, including the completion of a National Cycling Strategy and the development of a National Walking Strategy.
Meanwhile, the Maltese government, through its Transport Minister Chris Bonett, is actively trying to prevent a European Union directive that would lower the driving age to 17, allowing 17-year-olds to drive if accompanied by an adult. However, Bonett acknowledged that the directive is likely to pass through qualified majority voting, meaning Maltàs opposition may not stop its implementation. While Malta could be required to comply, the government is seeking ways to secure an exemption or derogation, though such exceptions are rare in EU law.
– photo: DOI –
(ITALPRESS).
