Sliema Residents Left Fuming As Rats And Rubbish Problems Pile Up In Tourism Zone
Rats, piling rubbish and constant litter are reportedly plaguing Sliema, at the time of year when tourists begin arriving in their droves to enjoy Malta’s much-promoted holiday experience.
Over the past few weeks, Sliema’s resident groups have been flooded with complaints, showing strong concern about the growing number of rats in the area. Many of the complaints mention litter being left all over the streets, with people regularly ignoring garbage truck pick-up times.
Sliema isn’t alone. Environment Minister Josè Herrera was this week forced into action after months of continuous reports about similar problems in the streets of Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay, with a video even emerging of large rats roaming the streets.
He has so far set up a meeting with the St Paul’s Bay local council, but with more of the island’s tourism centres suffering similar fates, Herrera must recognise that holistic reform and action is needed to maintain the island’s tourism product.
Tourism is a critical Maltese industry, accounting for over 15% of GDP
The sector was able to usher the country from independence to EU membership and even helped keep the country afloat during the 2008 financial crisis.
With 2.6 million arrivals last year, a rapid expansion plan at the airport, and the introduction of Malta Air, the industry is expected to grow even more. However, how many of them will be willing to return if they have to step over rats to get to the beach?
Should you wish to report a rubbish problem, the Cleansing and Maintenance Division has launched the ‘Clean and Upkeep’ mobile app so citizens can report litter and illegal dumping in public areas, or even request maintenance services.
