Momentum proposes shared cabs as solution to traffic congestion<\/p>\n
Momentum today presented the full details of its national transport strategy, proposing a shared cab system that will help tackle congestion. The detailed presentation was delivered by Engineer Marco Cremona, whose brainchild is at the core of the new transport policy, the party said in a statement.<\/p>\n
Malta’s transport network is at a breaking point, with over 447,000 licensed vehicles and an “annual congestion cost of €1.13 billion annually”, Momentum saud. In response, Momentum has proposed an €842 million holistic solution that can begin immediately. This investment is 72% less than the multi-billion metro proposals as presented by the big parties.<\/p>\n
The core of this strategy is the Subsidised Shared Cab Initiative (SSCI), a system that builds directly on existing infrastructure to provide a viable alternative to private car ownership. Using AI-driven algorithms, the systems group commuters heading in the same direction into a single vehicle. Because the apps, fleets, and public aptitude for using cabs already exist, the SSCI can be launched almost instantly with zero new construction.<\/p>\n
Mark Camilleri Gambin, General Secretary of Momentum and Candidate in the 3rd and 11th districts, addressed the press during the launch. “This plan stands in stark contrast to speculative, multi-billion Euro infrastructure projects that may never materialise. Our plan makes use of the assets we already have and reclaims land, time, and clean air to the public immediately. By securing an affordable, consistent pricing model through a provision of €234 million in annual fare subsidies, we are ensuring this works for the commuter.”<\/p>\n
To ensure the SSCI is supported by a robust public transport backbone, the following are some of the investments that are integrated into the holistic plan: The plan allocates €150 million to significantly boost the bus fleet, adding 300 new buses of varying capacity to introduce high-frequency direct routes during rush hour. €100 million is dedicated to ensuring pavements are wide enough, clear, safe and lead directly to transport hubs.<\/p>\n
The strategy specifically targets reducing the passenger car fleet to 200,000 by 2033. Once Phase 2 is fully implemented, transit times are projected to drop by 60% from current levels, Momentum said.<\/p>\n
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