Although Swieqi used to be part of St Julian’s, it has grown into a considerably large village, and a significant number of residents who use public transport had been making use of a bus stop on the Valletta side of the main road (St Andrew’s Road). This was ideally located and was also being used by residents of St Julian’s from Bay Street area.

About two months ago, this strategically-located Swieqi bus stop was removed.

Several residents who contacted Transport Malta were informed that this was done due to planned public works in the area. However, the nature or dates of the intended public works could not be revealed.

The only other option for residents is to walk further up the road to the Pembroke bus station some distance away.

This is done in most cases after having walked uphill from Bay Street or from various roads in Swieqi. While walking to the Pembroke bus stop, commuters have missed buses coming from both Pembroke and Mellieħa directions, and consequently ended up arriving late at their place of work or other destination.

Residents in this area have now resorted to using their own vehicles again, having given up on the authorities remedying this situation. The move was against government policy to encourage the use of public transport.

Such decisions are turning public transport into an inconvenience rather than a convenient service.

It would be appreciated if the authorities remedied this situation as soon as possible.