Joanna explained that since she moved to Msida – three years ago – there has been a regular overflow of raw sewage on the crossing paths of the subway.

This is particularly frustrating since the subway is the only way for pedestrians to cross the street since above it there is a roundabout without zebra crossings.

As one of her many reports, Joanna forwarded the issue to Water Services (WSC), along with several other entities, toward the end of June. After investigating the issue, they allegedly informed her that they couldn’t do anything because the area forms part of private property.

Yet, she later received a call from WSC and was informed that the issue was solved. The officer she spoke to also allegedly blamed the issue on “foreigners who throw paper and everything into the toilet”.

Nonetheless, that same night, she walked through the tunnel and noticed the leakage in other parts of the tunnel.

“In the morning, everything was completely flooded again. I have a doubt that the area was cleaned as the smell was still horrible that evening.”

“I find it ridiculous to blame foreigners instead of the Planning Authority, which allows mega-developments on a poor infrastructure of the area. It is very clear from the sewage overflows in Qui-Si Sana in Qawra, that the infrastructure is not catered for the overdeveloped country”

“Maybe it’s a way to enhance the medieval traditions and charm of the island with sewage flowing openly in the streets and rubbish everywhere,” she sarcastically.

Just a few days ago, she resubmitted an appeal to WSC, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), the Msida Local Council, and Planning Authority (PA); explaining that residents have been “swimming in the sewage” for almost a week and hoping that at least one entity can help.

Through her emails, she pleaded to authorities to create an alternate crossing passage and flag the issue as a public health one, especially since there are several “students and kids” frequenting the area.

Both MTA and PA responded by explaining that this does not fall within their remit.

Lately, sewage overflow reports contaminating the sea have been racking up with a couple of Public Health warnings telling swimmers not to bathe. This happened at least twice last week. 

The errs within island’s infrastructure are starting to show with several public services cracking under the pressure of overpopulation and overdevelopment.

WSC told Lovin Malta that the issue is being internally investigated; it will keep the newsroom updated with developments.

*The names in this story have been changed.

Is there a sewage problem in the area where you live?