Updated: All buses to be tested for emissions - ADT

(Adds AD clarification)

The Malta Transport Authority this morning denied remarks by Alternattiva Demokratika in which it was alleged that old buses would be exempt from new emissions testing procedures.

"Until recently, visual emissions inspections/tests were being carried out by the Authority on buses manufactured pre-1979. This visual test was also conducted on those pre-1979 buses refitted with later model engines . Following the report issued by the Malta Standards Authority these older buses will be subject to more rigid testing procedures on the same lines as those being carried out on the newer models," the ADT said.

"Additionally, all buses will now be equipped with a rev counter and a pump seal to ensure that engines are not tampered with before undergoing any testing while supplementary tests will be carried out annually by third parties.

"Over the coming weeks, the Authority will be embarking on an awareness campaign aimed at informing bus drivers of the adverse effects of noxious vehicular fumes."

In a reaction, AD said that it never claimed that there were plans not to test pre-1979 buses.

"What we insist is that all buses are tested to the current emission standards and that buses which do not meet modern standards are taken off the road," the party said.

"As a party we support ADTs efforts and indeed insist that it is high time that all buses are subjected to strict, modern and current testing procedures. We hope that ADT is successful and is allowed to implement its plans for cleaner buses. Indeed we call for the government to go a step further and embard on a total reform of the public transport system as soon as possible."