Former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat has shared his views on Malta’s transport situation, arguing that increasing traffic is a direct consequence of economic growth and higher mobility demands. In a detailed statement, Muscat said that when more people are working and moving around the country, congestion naturally increases, adding that there are no simple or instant solutions to the issue.
Muscat pointed to the Covid-19 pandemic as proof of this argument. He explained that during that period, “there were practically the same number of people in the country, but the roads were empty because the economy was at a standstill.” According to him, this demonstrated how traffic is closely linked to economic activity rather than population alone.
The former Prime Minister also criticised what he described as unrealistic promises to completely eliminate traffic problems. He stated that anyone claiming they can “solve” traffic with “a magic wand” is misleading the public. Muscat argued that the only measures capable of drastically reducing traffic overnight would be significantly increasing vehicle licence fees and introducing widespread parking meters. However, he stressed that the Labour Party has traditionally opposed such measures because they would place the greatest burden on workers and families whose schedules offer little flexibility.
Muscat said this was the reason behind the government’s major investment in infrastructure over recent years. He described the rebuilding and upgrading of roads across Malta as “the first step” of a broader national strategy designed to improve mobility. According to him, the next phase now focuses on long-term transport planning for the next 15 years.
Among the proposals he welcomed most were Mobility Credits, which would allow people to adapt transport choices according to their personal needs through the use of buses, taxis, and ferries. He described the concept as “excellent” because it offers greater flexibility for commuters while encouraging alternatives to private car use.
The former Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of sea transport connections, describing ferry projects linking different parts of Malta as “the cornerstone of everything.” He revealed that such projects should have started around a decade ago but were delayed by court proceedings. Muscat noted that there is now clearer recognition that ferries can provide a practical alternative to travelling by car.
He also expressed interest in learning more about the proposed light rail system, saying it appears “far more realistic” than previous transport concepts discussed in Malta. At the same time, he criticised the Nationalist Party train proposal, arguing that it could result in the removal of parking spaces and routes passing close to people’s homes and balconies unless it were developed through ODZ land.
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