Variable Message Signs seen in Malta's roads are used mostly in emergencies and are not meant to have a continuously changing message, Transport Malta said today.

Reacting to an item on Times of Malta on Friday, TM said the VMS are connected to its traffic control centre which is manned between 6am and 6pm and are part of a wider intelligent transport system that includes  CCTV cameras and intelligent traffic lights.

Traffic controllers monitor the cameras while a number of enforcement officers are on the ground, at major junctions, together with police officers and wardens to help guide traffic during the morning rush hour. The control centre is in constant communication with the officers on the ground. They dispatch mobile units and towing trucks whenever the need arises, helping traffic flow better. 

"We understand that most people, including the journalist who penned this article, only ever see the default messages on the signs. Indeed the variable signs are used mostly in emergencies and are not meant to have a continuously changing message for the sake of it. In fact, traffic controllers are using the variable message signs to send current information to drivers, whenever the need arises. In the past four weeks the signs were used 22 times," Transport Malta said.

It said it is committed to employ technology to help mitigate issues on the road. 

Transport Malta said a consultant who is providing advice and assistance about VMS is also helping it implement the EU Intelligent Transport Systems Framework Directive and regulations that stem from it.