Watch: Speeding Drifters’ Screeching Tyres Keeping Attard Residents Awake At Night
In the residential area of Ħ’Attard, a nightly disturbance has become a repetitive problem for the local residents.
Tires screeching and the smell of burning rubber have been part of the regular nightly routine for some neighbourhoods over the past two years.
“Drifting has been happening regularly at Ta’ Qali for at least the past two years. The noise is maddening, and it can be heard right through Ħ’Attard. You can also make out the tire smoke,” one resident told Lovin Malta.
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They said that they’ve been urging local authorities and the police to take firm action against the ongoing incidents of car drifting in Ta’ Qali.
“To anyone walking or cycling by a drifter, this smoke is blinding. It is also highly polluting burning rubber fumes which can be smelt even along Attard’s streets.”
The residents reported their attempts to have the situation handled by the local council and the police. However, they express their frustration at the lack of action.
“After repeated emails to the Local Council, I have started calling the Police almost daily, to send around a patrol car to stop the drifting, Local Council say that there is nothing they can do and all they can do is email the police.”
The police, on their part, claim that the drifters frequently evade them by driving around Ħ’Attard until they lose the police car, then return to drifting.
“I asked whether anyone is ever caught and if they are ever prosecuted. I am told that yes, occasionally some do get prosecuted, I am convinced that no one is interested in putting a stop to it.”
Even with the occasional drifter apprehended, residents do not believe the problem will cease anytime soon.
“Since Ta’ Qali is known all over the island, new drifters keep coming.”
The residents have suggested the installation of cameras in the areas to identify the drifters and their cars but unfortunately there was no action from authorities
“If I don’t phone, the drifting goes on for hours.”
The drifting still continues till this day with residents actively reporting against it.
Did you notice an increase in drifters on the island?