GozoNews.Com

Alternattiva Demokratika said the residents of Gharb and San Lawrenz are inconvenienced not only by being unable to use the main road leading to Victoria but also because of horrendous smoke pollution emanating from the road construction machinery and trucks.

AD’s Gozo regional committee said it was receiving a considerable number of complaints from residents.

It said tour operators were saying that when visiting the Ta’ Pinu area minibus passengers are being exposed to thick smoke and dust pollution. Trucks are filled up with more than the allowed tonnage and their loads are not covered as required by law, AD’s regional committee said.

“It seems that in Gozo the wardens turn a blind eye to these heavy duty trucks which are overloaded and not covered. Their hazardous emissions cannot even be reported to ADT by the public as the dirty number plates are unreadable,” committee spokesman Victor Galea said.

“Above all the Government must realise that the most damage is being done to the health of residents, especially young children and the elderly, living in the narrow lanes in the residential areas adjacent to the road works. It is high time the competent authorities realise that road works can be done in a responsible way with due respect being shown to residents and tourists alike in all aspects.

Whether it is the Government or private contractors carrying out the job rigorous environmental guidelines and standards that prevent unnecessary pollution and inconveniences should be put into place, adhered to and enforced,” added Dr Vassallo.

“The government has not only transformed Malta and Gozo into one whole building site all year round but is showing callous disrespect for the health of locals and foreigners alike,” concluded Victor Galea.