In the heart of Malta, the once-quiet town of Naxxar is now echoing with the clanking of cranes and the hum of heavy machinery. But it’s not the sound of progress that’s got locals and environmentalists worried. It’s the ominous groaning of the very earth beneath their feet.

Stroll down Triq il-Kbira in Naxxar today, and you’ll find yourself in a whirlwind of construction. What was once a peaceful rural town, known for its farmlands and traditional houses, is now a forest of scaffolding and concrete. The pace of development has been nothing short of breathtaking, with high-rise apartments and commercial buildings springing up like mushrooms after rain.

But the rapid transformation has not been without its controversies. Environmental groups have raised alarm bells over the loss of green spaces and the impact on local ecosystems. Now, a new concern has emerged, one that’s causing the ground to shift, quite literally.

Residents have been reporting strange occurrences – sudden cracks in walls, doors that won’t close properly, and even the ground shifting beneath their feet. The fear is palpable. Could these be signs of something more sinister? Something that could bring the very foundations of Naxxar crashing down?

Momentum, Malta’s leading environmental organisation, is urging the authorities to investigate. They’ve pointed the finger at the rapid development, suggesting that the extensive excavation and construction could be destabilising the ground. But the developers insist that all necessary precautions are being taken.

Momentum has called for a thorough geotechnical investigation, urging the Planning Authority to halt further development until the safety of the area can be guaranteed. They’ve also asked for the involvement of independent experts to ensure transparency and accuracy.

Meanwhile, the Planning Authority has been tight-lipped, only stating that they are “aware of the situation” and are “looking into it”. But for the residents of Naxxar, time is of the essence. They’re not just worried about their homes; they’re worried about their safety.

“We’ve seen the ground move,” says Maria, a Naxxar resident. “It’s scary. We don’t know what’s happening, and no one seems to be able to tell us. We just want answers, and we want them now.”

The future of Naxxar hangs in the balance. On one hand, there’s the promise of progress, of a thriving commercial hub. On the other, there’s the very real fear of collapse, of homes and lives being shattered.

Momentum is leading the charge, fighting for the safety of Naxxar’s residents. They’re not against development, they say, but they’re against development at any cost. They’re calling on the authorities to prioritise safety, to ensure that Naxxar’s future is built on solid ground.

“We’re not asking for much,” says Mark, Momentum’s spokesperson. “We’re just asking for peace of mind. We want to know that our homes are safe, that our children can play in the streets without fear. Is that too much to ask?”