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Where are they now?
The
Maltese bus
No: 0074
Why are they in the news today?
They remain the most inefficient, challenging form of transport
in the Western world.
So why are they still in operation?
They are quaint and a good tourist attraction, so we are told.
And?
And they also serve as a monument to the government's resolve about
doing nothing about something.
What do you remember most about a Maltese bus?
Its comfortable seats, the sterility of the bus and better still
the politeness of the drivers.
What other unique features can you mention about a Maltese bus?
The fact that it never breaks down, the driver always says good
morning and thank you and takes unkindly to blasphemy, except his
own, of course.
What constitutes a Maltese bus?
Ah, very good question. The first important thing for the bus is
a diesel engine spouting smoke and smog.
The second is corrugated iron dating back to 1935, the third are
seats with no springs and the fourth are glass panes that rattle
in time to the tunes blaring from the driver's radio. And finally
a picture of Our Virgin of sorrows.
Which bus experience will you never forget?
The most unforgettable one was when the driver discovered to his
chagrin that his bus had no brakes.
And the other one was when a driver who resembled a gorilla lost
his cool and bludgeoned an
arrogant, rude and uncaring French student.
Why is a Maltese bus so unique?
You can sweat profusely, find no seat, be abused, suffocate from
fumes and still not get to your destination on time.
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