Asphalt overflowing into Wied Qirda that caused much controversy the past week, has now been removed.
Controversy has erupted over the road widening and resurfacing project, which has already seen the removal of a number of trees and shrubs to widen the country lane. A truck carrying asphalt had overturned when part of the road collapsed, sending its load flying onto a carob tree below. The incident led to heightened criticism of the project, which is taking place along a ridge in the most picturesque part of the protected valley.
Infrastructure Malta had recently told The Malta Independent that “the damaged road will be repaired in the coming weeks, after which all debris and asphalt on the side of the road will be cleaned.” However the asphalt has now been removed, seemingly prior to the completion of the repair works, possibly due to the mounting pressure and scrutiny.
The ongoing works in the indicated road form part of the agency’s investment in rural roads, to improve the quality of countryside roads used mainly by farmers to access their agricultural lands, Infrastructure Malta previously said. “The road was earmarked for resurfacing in 2018. Parts of it were completed earlier this year and last year. Works include the removal of the existing tarmacked surface, repairs to its foundations and the laying of a narrow strip of new asphalt.”
