A conference organised by the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works on the Malta 2050 Vision, with the theme ‘Sustainable Mobility and Infrastructure’, discussed various aspects related to this sector, with the participation of a number of stakeholders and organisations. This conference is part of a wider consultation and information process linked to the Government’s vision until the year 2050.
The event brought together representatives from Transport Malta and Infrastructure Malta, along with academics, NGOs and the business community, to discuss priorities and the next step towards a sustainable transport system and a modern, efficient and resilient infrastructure.
The conference was addressed by the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett, who stressed the importance of an open, realistic and principled discussion, with the aim of building a mobility framework that reflects the real needs of the citizen. He listed a number of measures implemented and bearing fruit from the ‘Reshaping Our Mobility’ initiative while mentioning a number of sustainable alternatives that the Government is offering including free public land transport, new ferry routes, incentives for carpooling and park & ride services among others.
Dr Jonathan Spiteri from the Malta 2050 Vision team explained how the Vision aspires towards systems that keep the public at their core, and therefore through new technologies and sustainable structural investments, we will be seeing changes in the way we travel, and in how we design our logistics, whether on land, by sea or by air.
During the second part of the conference, a number of interventions were made by those present, in a discussion with the CEO of Transport Malta, Kurt Farrugia, and the CEO of Infrastructure Malta, Steve Ellul. The discussion focused on the concrete steps being taken to improve connectivity and infrastructure in our country, as well as the challenges related to a change in mentality and changes in the use of existing infrastructure.
The conference showed a clear consensus among participants on the need for a collaborative, strategic and long-term approach, so that mobility in Malta benefits both local communities and the national economy.
The public consultation on Vision Malta 2050 is open and anyone who wishes can share their aspirations on envision2050.gov.mt .
Photo: MTIP
