Breaking the traditional daytime haulage operations in Malta : less congestion and improved transport operations?

Abstract

The external costs of congestion and consequently the physical impact on the island’s network are highly prevalent in the public domain. With the principal goal to mitigate some congestion and shrug off some criticism, Transport Malta proposed a draft amendment to the traffic regulations suggesting a ban of road tractors mainly carrying construction equipment and other supplies during peak hours. Although it has been discarded, intentions are not to be taken lightly as a ‘no action’ or limited policy does not guarantee that a similar proposal will not be put forward in the future possible extending to freight transport because after all freight is part of the network. This study approached a number of hauliers to explore trends in freight movements and how would the concept of off-peak haulage be absorbed. The results give an insight on freight productions and attraction in the urban area with a highlight on off-peak haulage and the potential of a pilot project together with recommendations for policy makers to achieve a more sustainable transport network.