Caroline Galea (September 16) came out with some good comments on the problem of road congestion which she soon ruined by mixing reasons with a hint of bias. For example, she mentioned the vast increase of second hand cars without offering any suggestions.
This increase occurred due to everyone wanting a finger in the car market pie without the government of the day tackling the problem at its roots.
This market must be fully controlled. Cars older than three years from the manufacture date should absolutely not imported.
Cars written off by the insurance company should be scrapped and not find their way back on the streets. VRT must be a serious exercise as with so many junk cars on the road I have my doubts about its efficacy.
Traffic control cannot be carried out by lollipop ladies. Traffic policemen (not happy go lucky wardens) are essential to carry out checks on the spot about faulty lights, lack of indicators, crawling in the fast lane, and myriad other shortfalls. What sort of driving tests are carried out when certain drivers do not seem to have even basic knowledge?
Talking of parking, how come tickets are issued galore for non-infringements while at the same time congestions are caused by people wanting to buy bread or a cheesecake?
Her other suggestions would cause even more problems. She must be kidding when she recommended trackless trains.
The only viable (though not financially-feasible) option is an underground train network. Efforts in the past have always failed.
Finally the cherry on the cake is her suggestion for tax exemption on motorcycles. What experience does she have of other countries?
In theory I agree with raising the age to obtain a driving licence. An alternative would be that up to the age of 25 years, new drivers will not be allowed to drive a car with an engine of more than 1000cc.
Her best coup regards persons of a certain age. While some senior people are still living in the past, others are an example on the road. Thus, if required, a new driving test should be introduced for those who are 70 years or older.
I agree that education, coupled with strict control and discipline, is essential. But without complete political commitment no one should expect any progress.