Traffic density in Malta is increasing exponentially and is having a growing negative impact on our quality of life with added noise, air pollution and the risk of injury.

In an effort to reduce the harmful dimension of excessive car use, local councils have introduced various measures to alleviate the situation. This mainly consists of the introduction of one way streets and sleeping policemen to reduce and slow down traffic in residential areas.

Balzan has more than its fair share of traffic, especially those areas in the vicinity of the schools which are concentrated close to each other. One of the worst hit roads is the upper section of Triq il-Kannizzata.

Some years ago, Triq Il-Kannizzata was made one-way and a sleeping policeman placed at the high risk intersection with Old Railway Road. For some unfathomable reason, shortly afterwards and without any consultation whatsoever, this was withdrawn from the upper half of Triq il-Kannizzata.

The sleeping policeman was also withdrawn, and again without any consultation. Now, out of the blue, some months ago, the small street of St Gabriel was made one-way, increasing the traffic load on the already overused section of Triq il-Kannizzata. This was the last straw and most of the residents in the area signed a petition to discuss the matter and rectify this added injustice.

A meeting was held on December 14, 2011 by residents’ representatives and suggested improvements were trashed out with the mayor. The mayor passed these on to Transport Malta the following day. Over two months have gone by now and our suggestions seem to have fallen on deaf ears. It is shocking that the elementary courtesy of an official reply and an explanation of how this sad state of affairs will be rectified is too much for Transport Malta. What is the point of having the much-vaunted local representation if a central authority that decides these issues drags its feet or worse still, does nothing if not make matters worse?

This government prides itself on dialogue and subsidiarity. It has a perfect opportunity to look into the matter and translate words into action.