Transport minister launches new public transport routes in Gozo

Transport minister Joe Mizzi launched the new public transport routes for Gozo earlier today. The routes will start operating on Sunday 21st June and they are being introduced gradually to allow the public to get accustomed to them.

The launch comes amidst an informative campaign organized by Transport Malta to inform the public about the new public transport system.

Mizzi explained that the new routes were a result of various meetings and consultations both with the public in general and with local councils.

“The consultations were above all carried out with Maltese and Gozitan people who use the service,” Mizzi said.

In a government statement issued earlier today, it was pointed out that new routes included an additional 96,403 km every year, as well as an additional four buses to join the ten buses in operation now.

“The new service will therefore operate using 14 vehicles, an extension or change in six existing routes and an increase in frequency or change in the schedules of eight routes,” the statement reads.

It added that there had been 34 new bus stops in Gozo so that the total of stops on the island has now reached 335.

“The new bus routes started in Gozo because we believe public transport in Gozo can continue to get stronger and that Gozitan people and tourists alike will be served better than ever before now that summer is coming.”

Transport Malta is currently handing out information leaflets in Gozitan households to explain what the changes consist, according to the statement.

“This past week has seen many changes in public transport,” Mizzi said. “We have just announced a reduction in bus fares from €6.50 to €2 both for Blue Badge holders and for Yellow Disability Badge holders.”

He added that 40 new buses would arrive in July and that an additional 120 buses would be delivered throughout the summer months.