Daniel Micallef Calls For Study On Cost Of Not Introducing Mass Transport In Malta
Former PL deputy leader Daniel Micallef has called for a study into the potential costs Malta would face if it decides against introducing a mass transport system in the coming years.
Micallef spoke out after mass transport returned to the political agenda, with Prime Minister Robert Abela stating the estimated cost has been revised downwards from €6 billion to €2.8 billion.
He said that while discussions on the cost of a mass transport system are crucial, the status quo could also come with its own considerable financial price.
“Debates about mass transport often focus solely on how much it will cost – and rightly so, because it is a crucial factor and involves a great deal of responsibility,” he said.
“However, one day I would also like to see a detailed study with predictions for how much it would cost the country if mass transport isn’t introduced.”
“I’m referring to efficiency, productivity and logistics, as well as health and the environment, among other factors.”
“There are case studies we can look at, not of large countries or metropolises with millions of people, but small cities with smaller populations than Malta.”
According to a 2022 European Commission report, traffic and pollution costs Malta around €400 million a year, around 3.5% of the country’s GDP.
Photo: Daniel Micallef
READ NEXT: Maltese Doctor Dame Clare Gerada Nominated To UK House Of Lords
