The ultimate solution for the increase in the number of cars, which he described as “scary”, is a new mass transportation system, PN leaderAdrian Delia said today on Net FM.
Delia noted that by the end of June this year there were 400,000 cars on the road and the government’s only solution is to widen roads, only to get stuck in traffic again a bit further down.
He commented that whilst the increase in the number of buses is good, it is useless if they are still going to be stuck in traffic. For the buses to be punctual and efficient, the roads need to have fewer private vehicles.
“You could add 1,000 buses but it is not a solution if they are stuck in traffic,” Delia noted.
Since the population is expected to continue increasing, the number of cars is going to increase too, Delia said, adding that Malta “is going to end up in a gridlock.” He noted that he has been saying for two years that widening the roads is not a solution and that he has consulted with experts on the matter.
Delia said that the solution is a new mass transportation system along with education, adding that the PN is speaking with several stakeholders on the matter to find solutions.
To this he added that the environment is a priority for the PN, saying that it is an essential element to everything, including any mass transportation system. Delia commented that there should be no collateral damage to the environment when designing this transportation system, adding that it needs to reduce mortality, provide efficient transport and ultimately a better standard of living.
Delia also spoke about the recent increase in fuel prices saying that when you discuss fuel prices you have to take note of international values. He said that the last time the price of diesel was €1.28 was when oil was $103 per barrel. Today, the price of diesel has increased to €1.28 but the price of oil is $54 per barrel, exactly half of what it was then.
The Labour opposition then had criticised the government for the hike in fuel prices but the oil price was double what it is today, Delia noted.
He said that the problem today is a lack of planning by the government and commented that the political emphasis on the decrease in fuel prices before the general election has failed. The PN’s concern is that society is suffering the repercussions, Delia noted, adding that the increase in fuel prices is having a big impact on small businesses.
Delia mentioned that there was no reaction from the government about the increase in fuel prices, despite even the GRTU commenting about it. “It is worrying and it will have a ripple effect in the coming winter months,” Delia said.
Speaking about social media, Delia said that it could be a very good tool for communication if used properly. However, he noted that cyberbullying is a reality, even in politics. The PN is to provide education in the form of workshops and eventually a conference about how social media can be used properly for political messages.
In reply, the Labour Party said it is ironic that Delia speaks of a government without a plan when he was unable to lead the Oppisition to a reform he promised.
The PL said that the government had carried out a massive reform in the energy sector which was leaving €80 in people’s pockets and led to more stable, lower fuel prices.
