It is with a sight of great relief to hear that Transport Malta is reconsidering the new bus routes which have come into effect with the Arriva transport services.

I would like to comment on some of the ordeal which regular bus commuters using the new 81 (Marsaxlokk-Valletta) and 82 (Birżebbuġa-Valletta) routes are experiencing:

The duration of the trip has increased by approximately 20-30 minutes with the new routes. On arriving at Marsa, instead of heading to Valletta, the buses actually take a U-turn to the Marsa Park and Ride. After waiting for a few minutes (which may include the change of drivers amid some discussions or arguments) we are invited to take a detour to traffic-jammed Ħamrun.

With some luck the trip is over in 45-50 minutes instead of the previous 20- to 25-minute bus route.

And if you are unlucky enough, you may have done this pleasant tour in a new Arriva bus with no air-conditioning at noon (as was the case with me last Tuesday, July 12).