During the morning of February 10 maintenance works were carried out on two manholes in Dun Mikiel Xerri Street, Attard. I have no complaint or objection regarding the work carried out. On the contrary, one of the manholes was damaged to the extent that it could eventually pose a danger to motorists.

However, I am utterly disappointed and concerned about the precautions which were put in place after the works were completed the same morning. As shown in the photo, plastic euro barriers were placed on location to ensure that no cars would be driven over the repaired manholes. So far so good.

What is unacceptable is that, come nightfall, the barriers were left right in the middle of the road with no emergency lamp to signal and alert motorists of such a hazard.

The barriers remained there for two consecutive nights and it's a miracle that in such a busy road with average street lighting no serious accidents took place, although there were some close shaves.

Why such irresponsibility and life-threatening neglect for road safety? What about adherence to and observance of EU standards and regulations in such matters? What about accountability for such amateurish work? Suppose a motorist is injured or a vehicle is damaged because of such perilous unlit obstructions, who would be liable for damages?

We motorists have to observe all road regulations and, in particular, unreasonably low speed limits or get lumped with a hefty fine for any offence. Similarly we should demand that authorities observe and provide us with secure health and safety measures when road works are carried out.