First phase of Mtarfa bypass almost completed

The first phase of the Mtarfa bypass, which has been two years in the making, is expected to be completed in the coming days with work on the second phase starting in a matter of weeks, Roads Minister Jesmond Mugliett said.

Mr Mugliett, who visited the site yesterday, said the opening of the road was crucial because it would be used to divert traffic once work started on the reconstruction of the road between the Mtarfa cemetery and the Ta' Srina roundabout, being funded by the Fifth Italo-Maltese Financial Protocol.

The work carried out so far on the Mtarfa bypass included new water and drainage mains, which form part of the sewerage masterplan.

Since the road has suffered extensive damage from heavy rainwater in the past, the construction plans include storm water culverts.

The last binding layer of tarmac should be completed in the coming days which would mean that part of the road would be open to traffic.

Mr Mugliett said three tenders for similar work on the rest of the bypass had been adjudicated and work is expected to start soon after the contractors receive the letters of acceptance.