Transport Malta has warned Arriva that its bus drivers should not ignore traffic lights in Floriana while they wait for their replacement driver to board.

The driver replacement system on Triq Sarria adjacent to Floriana Granaries is a source of frustration for commuters to Valletta, who often wait several minutes just before reaching their destination while a new driver boards the bus.

Transport Malta said this should take 40 seconds on average, though it sometimes takes up to three minutes. The regulator said it has warned Arriva the process sometimes takes too long.

The point where new drivers board buses is located just before traffic lights, which can add to the delay and cause tailbacks, particularly in rush hour.

In Friday’s morning rush hour, The Sunday Times observed one bus halt directly in front of the traffic lights, which changed from red to green three times while the driver waited for his replacement to board.

Bus drivers caught in the resultant tail-back sounded their horns in annoyance. This section of road is used by buses only.

Both Transport Malta and Arriva said the bus operator does not have special dispensation to ignore the traffic lights on Triq Sarria.

Transport Malta said it was taking it up with Arriva, which decided where the changeover takes place.

A spokesman for the bus company said replacement drivers are supposed to board the bus on Triq Sarria but the changeover of drivers should take place at the drop-off point at the Valletta terminus while passengers are alighting.

Journey times are calculated to the Valletta terminus, not the point where a new driver boards.

Interchange operatives are in charge of ensuring the correct changeover procedure is followed.