The Kappara roundabout remains a problem, with vehicles pushing into the roundabout then jockeying for position all the way to the exit so each blocks every other; traffic is at most times at higher density and a much lower speed than could be achieved. Roundabout traffic must be managed, rather than being a free-for-all, aiming at smooth flow, with vehicles exiting as quickly as possible.

Drivers are forced into this behaviour by the prolonged gridlock and the design defects. The lanes vary considerably in width throughout their length; the outer margin is irregular and not concentric to the island; the solid lines at which oncoming traffic should stop are consequently too far back.

A few simple alterations would vastly improve traffic flow at relatively moderate expense:

Road markings must be clearly seen, preferably raised, and regularly maintained;

Road signs are needed well before the roundabout, allowing drivers without local knowledge to choose the correct lane in good time;

The island must be re-shaped to conform to the outer edge of the roundabout, with the lanes of uniform width throughout. It must not be reduced, as this diminishes the space available to traffic and makes the turn much sharper;

There must be no stopping on the roundabout: no traffic lights; any stalled vehicle to be towed away immediately. Continuous cameras monitoring and rapid response are needed;

Traffic approaching the roundabout must be slowed down using speed bumps or chicanes (triangular obstructions forcing traffic to zig-zag). With traffic light, some enter at speed. When traffic is heavy, lights are needed so traffic is made to stack up on the road, rather than the roundabout. Placed well before the roundabout, a green light will not be assumed to give priority at the roundabout. Control would best be in response to buried sensors;

Filter lanes are needed for traffic to and from Gzira, removing much of the present problem. Both lanes can be accommodated in the available space, plus some released by moving the island and the central strip away from Gzira. Traffic from Gzira must be separated into filter and roundabout lanes, using raised curbs and a small triangular reserve, guiding traffic to enter the roundabout radially. The filter lane must run alongside the Regional Road sufficiently to allow merging, with this clearly signposted as obligatory. Traffic entering the roundabout must be restricted sufficiently to allow this;

An intense campaign is needed to educate the public about road safety, particularly on lane discipline, and roundabout rules. Police and taxi drivers would benefit;

Camera monitoring of traffic, followed up by prosecutions of aggressive and inconsiderate drivers would have a salutary effect provided such are treated firmly by the courts, including cases involving drivers who need their car to work;

An initial period of close supervision until drivers get used to the new arrangements and any glitches are fixed.

The above would result in a much smoother and faster flow of traffic.

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