As a driver, I have been wondering why so many pedestrians prefer to risk their lives by walking under the pavement rather than on it. I think I now know the reason.

The majority of pavements that were originally meant for pedestrians (of all ages andabilities) are nowadays catering for the needs of drivers andtheir vehicles.

Walking along a pavement is often a really dangerous thing to do. Pedestrians have to go up and down according to the needs of garage owners. If the person walking along the pavement is in some way distracted, he may easily damage his back. It seems the priority with pavements is no longer the pedestrian but the car driver who wants to enter or exit a garage.

This situation is becoming intolerable. I appeal to all local councils in Malta and Gozo: are pavements still meant for the pedestrian? If so, local legislation should make it illegal to lower or raise the level of the pavement according to the individual garage owner’s whims. All pavements are to be levelled perfectly to make it possible for people of all ages – including wheelchair users – to use them safely. Why should they avoid using them for fear of damaging their backs, preferring to risk being hit by a car or bus in the process?

This situation needs to be rectified as soon as possible by enacting appropriate legislation. Roads are to be used by vehicles but pavements should cater for the needs of those persons who use them.

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