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Karl Stagno-Navarra
Difficult as it already is to get through the numerous daily diversions, motorists are to brace themselves for one of the biggest logistical nightmares ever experienced, as works on Manoel Dimech bridge along regional road are set to start at the end of November.
While preparations are in full swing, Malta Today has managed to get a preview of the strategies being discussed within the Ministry for Urban Development and Roads, in order to counter the traffic disruption expected once the works begin.
The impact on motorists is evident, as the diversions and recommended alternative routes, clearly show what a strategic back-bone the Manoel Dimech bridge and regional road are to the transport network of the island.
Ministry and transport authority officials are currently finalising the strategy for diversions, as works are intended to start on 23 November, and are estimated to take one year to complete.
As works will be split into two phases, and will involve the demolition of the super structure, rehabilitation of supporting piers and abutments and the re-alignment of adjoining roads, motorists are to be guided for the first time ever in Malta through so called Variable Message Signs, better known as VMS.
VMS are electronic roadside signs that change in content depending on the prevailing circumstances.
ADT is set to use the VMS systems that are to be installed at strategic points, to advise motorists on accidents ahead, warning on traffic congestions, road work zones, and speed limit warnings.
It is understood that a national information campaign will be launched in order to assist motorists to pre-select their routes and avoid the congestions expected.
The strategy is intended to ease the burden on the bridges as works will be phased in a way that while one bridge will be demolished and rebuilt, the other will be serving as a two-way carriage way.
The first phase will see works starting on the St Julians to Valletta carriageway, making the other bridge that today routes St Julians bound traffic from Valletta a two-way carriage road.
The deviations are detailed and literally focus on traffic bound from North to South, South to North, Centre to North and Centre to South.
Diversion routes will also concentrate on the adjoining areas, involving San Gwann, Kappara, Gzira, Sliema, St. Julians, Pembroke, Swieqi, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, L-Ibragg, High Ridge and Bahar ic-Caghaq.
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