Closure of the ring road at Mater Dei Hospital caused a nightmare for motorists on the Birkirkara Bypass this morning.

An overturned car at Rue-d'Argens in Msida caused a similar situation in the heart of Msida.

Photo: Simon Scicluna

At the Birkirkara By-pass, motorists reported that it took them 45 minutes to drive along the road during rush hour.

The tailback was caused because of the closure of the hospital ring road for maintenance works - about which the staff were given notice.

People on the scene said motorists were driving up to the hospital, then turning back to the Birkirkara bypass. The traffic jam was caused because the traffic from the hospital had priority at the roundabout behind Birkirkara church.

The closure is also affecting the hospital bus service. The buses are driving up to the main entrance but not following the ring road. Instead, they are being turned towards the bypass and the university interchange.

Access to the car parks can only be gained from the San Gwann area and there is no access to the hospital from the University. Ambulances are not affected.

The works are expected to continue for some days.

MSIDA CHAOS

In Msida, a Skoda Fabia overturned as it was being driven up busy Rue D'Argens after it hit two parked cars. The road was closed while investigations were carried out and the car was removed. The driver was not injured.

Traffic from Tal-Qroqq down towards Msida was being diverted at Tal-Qroqq towards Sta Venera.