PN MP Robert Cutajar has hit out at Infrastructure Malta over an announcement that part of the Mellieha bypass will need to be redone, since the bypass was constructed in 2018, highlighting that the authority is taking people for a ride by only realising now that new underground pipes are needed.
Infrastructure Malta, on Facebook, wrote: “This week, our contractors are starting repairs of the Mellieha Bypass (Louis Wettinger Road). Parts of this road’s surface, which was rebuilt in 2018, did not meet our quality standards and needs to be redone. After consulting the Mellieha Local Council, we are also installing a new underground pipeline to reinforce the road’s storm water system with new catchments. Some lanes may be closed during works. Weather permitting, all repairs will be ready by next month. Thank you for your cooperation.”
Commenting on the situation, Cutajar said that Infrastructure Malta continued to try and take people for a ride. “Today they are realising that they had to install new pipes… a year after they stole part of the bypass and spent €2 million to still have conducted defective works. Feel ashamed.”
Asked what he referred to when saying that part of the bypass had been stolen, he said he was referring to a service road being constructed to service a private development. Cutajar said that this case is still pending before the Ombudsman. The Environment Commissioner within the Office of the Ombudsman had originally dismissed the case, however Cutajar asked that it be reconsidered and the Ombudsman accepted. The decision on the case is still pending, Cutajar explained.
