Qormi’s Road Safety Crisis: A Spike in Accidents

Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon in Qormi, Malta’s third largest local council. The bustling streets, lined with traditional balconies and historic buildings, are a hive of activity. But beneath this charming facade lies a worrying trend. In the first three months of 2023, Qormi has seen a stark increase in traffic accidents, outpacing other localities. So, what’s causing this spike, and what can be done to turn the tide?

Data from the Malta Police Force paints a clear picture. Between January and March, Qormi recorded 127 road accidents, compared to 95 in the same period last year. That’s a 33% increase. The hotspots? Triq San Girgor and Triq l-Imqades, both major thoroughfares, top the list. But it’s not just about numbers. Each accident represents a real story, a real impact on Qormi’s residents.

Take, for instance, the accident at the junction of Triq San Girgor and Triq il-Karmnu in February. A car and a motorcycle collided, sending both drivers to Mater Dei Hospital. Locals watched in horror as the accident unfolded, a stark reminder of the reality behind these statistics.

So, what’s driving this increase? Qormi Mayor Mario Fava points to a mix of factors. “We’ve seen more traffic due to development projects, like the new Qormi Business Centre,” he says. “And with more people working from home, local traffic has increased significantly.” Speeding, distracted driving, and lack of road safety awareness are also major concerns.

Local resident and road safety advocate, Joseph Xuereb, echoes these concerns. “I’ve seen drivers using their phones, speeding, even driving the wrong way down one-way streets,” he says. “It’s not just about enforcement, it’s about education and awareness.”

Qormi Council is taking action. They’re working with the police to increase patrols, especially in accident hotspots. Speed cameras are being installed, and plans are underway to improve road signage and markings. But they need the community’s support too.

“We’re calling on Qormi residents to be more aware, to drive safely, and to report any dangerous driving they see,” Mayor Fava urges. “Together, we can make our streets safer.”

Joseph Xuereb agrees. “We all have a role to play. Let’s look out for each other on Qormi’s roads. After all, it’s our home, our community.”