Transport Minister Aaron Farrugia has revealed a comprehensive plan for improving road safety in our country in the wake of one of the worst year’s for road fatalities the island’s ever seen.

Farrugia announced a seven point plan of action set to be implemented in 2023:

1. Renewal of a Road Safety Strategy that acknowledges the realities of our islands today that will lead us towards 2030;

2. The establishment of a Transport Safety Investigations Commission;

3. Fortifying the role of the Road Safety Council as consultant to the government, with its structure and role to become embedded into Malta’s laws;

4. Increased enforcement and harsher fines;

5. A change in the culture of safety from a young age. Close cooperation with the educational institutions;

6. Safeguarding the element of security in road infrastructure projects;

7. Educational and information campaigns throughout the year.

The minister declared that a white paper on the establishment of a transport safety investigations commission is also set to be published for public consultation.

Malta has subscribed to Vision Zero, an international strategy that aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy and equitable mobility for all.

First implemented in Sweden in the 1990s, Vision Zero has proved successful across Europe. 

“Everyone should have a role and responsibility to achieve these aims, including the government, authorities, drivers, and pedestrians. Together we all need to ensure that our roads are safe. For me, victims of road accidents are not simply numbers, but persons with families behind them,” Farrugia said. 

A spate of traffic accidents this year has highlighted concerns about increases in traffic congestion and incidents of road rage besides reckless driving and blatant illegalities.