Motorists have experienced frustration and delays in recent days after a section of the road between Mosta and Burmarrad was closed so that the Water Services Corporation could carry out works.

The Malta Transport Authority (ADT) placed newspaper adverts last week informing motorists that the stretch of Vjal Millbrae would be closed yesterday and today.

Yesterday, police closed off Burmarrad Road from next to the Burmarrad church while, on the other side, cars were diverted to Naxxar.

One Bidnija resident told The Sunday Times that it took her an extra 30 minutes to get home because of the diversions and "confusion."

Another resident said all three roads leading to her home were closed to traffic and as a result, said she had no choice but to drive all the way round and access Bidnija through Mġarr and Żebbiegħ.

In the meantime, thousands of motorists were stuck in traffic jams as one of the main thoroughfares was closed at the peak of the tourist season.

One Buġibba resident said: "Why do they pick the busiest time of year to carry out works on this road?

It's causing chaos, unacceptable delays and is quite frankly a crazy thing to do." To add to the residents' frustrations, the freephone number advertised in case of difficulties was nothing more than an answering machine. The Sunday Times tried calling on the number provided - 8007 2393 - but an answering machine would only inform the caller of the ADT's opening hours.