New route bus operators, Arriva, want more drivers

As July 3 approaches, bus operator Arriva is gearing up for the new transport system launch.

The company has already engaged 530 drivers, including 15 females, but it is seeking to fill the last batch of vacancies. To this end the firm is looking for D licence holders who speak English and Maltese.

More than 300 drivers have completed customer care training and training in safety drills, Arriva standards, safe manoeuvres, observation, signals and techniques in eco-driving for the efficient and environmentally friendly use of fuel.

About 70 drivers have also passed advanced roadcraft training to drive the articulated buses.

In the meantime, more than 850 bus stop poles have been erected. Some bus stops have been relocated to reflect the updated network and new bus stops were added.

The bus stop poles will be fitted at every location by the middle of June and flags featuring colour-coded route numbers will be added over the coming weeks. More than 100 bus stops will have real time information screens displaying the minutes left before the next bus arrives.

Arriva is printing a Guide To Your All New Bus Services, which will include a pull-out network map. The guide will be mailed to every household later this month giving information about the routes and timetables, tickets and fares, where to buy tickets from and customer care tips.

“We promise to change the way you think about bus travel,” managing director Keith Bastow said when he unveiled Arriva’s new uniform on Wednesday. In the summer, drivers will wear a short-sleeved white shirt, a tie or ladies’ cravat and blue trousers or skirt. Sleeveless and long sleeve pullovers and jackets will be worn in winter.

Inspectors will wear grey trousers, charcoal grey ties and navy suit jackets.

Those interested in bus driver vacancies with Arriva can dial 7938 3891 for an immediate appointment.