As you drive through Xewkija, the hum of heavy vehicles is almost deafening. The once-quiet village, nestled in the heart of Gozo, is now a symphony of diesel engines, thanks to the park-and-ride facility that’s been operating there since 2019. But how temporary is this ‘temporary’ solution, and what’s the ministry’s plan for the future?

Xewkija’s transformation is stark. What was once a peaceful village, known for its historic church and traditional Gozitan architecture, is now a major transit point for commuters. The park-and-ride facility, set up to ease traffic congestion in Victoria, has indeed done its job – but at a cost. Residents complain of noise pollution, traffic congestion, and safety concerns, especially during peak hours.

According to the Ministry for Gozo, the facility was intended to be a ‘temporary’ solution while a more permanent one was being planned. But two years on, the heavy vehicles show no signs of leaving. “We understand the concerns of the residents,” a ministry spokesperson told Hot Malta. “The situation is temporary, and we’re working on a long-term solution.”

But for Xewkija residents like Maria, who’s lived there all her life, the word ‘temporary’ is losing its meaning. “I wake up every morning to the sound of trucks,” she says, standing outside her home on Triq San Lawrenz. “It’s not just the noise. It’s the constant traffic, the fumes, the safety of our children. This was supposed to be temporary, but it’s becoming our new normal.”

Maria is not alone. A petition calling for the removal of the heavy vehicles has gathered over 500 signatures. “We’re not against progress,” says the petition’s organiser, Joseph. “But this is not the right place for this. It’s causing us more harm than good.”

The ministry acknowledges the concerns and assures that a long-term solution is in the works. “We’re studying various options, including relocating the facility or improving the current one to mitigate its impact on the residents,” the spokesperson says. But with no concrete timeline or plan shared, residents are left wondering when, or if, their village will return to its former quiet self.

In the meantime, the ministry encourages residents to voice their concerns. “We’re listening,” the spokesperson says. “We urge the residents to keep communicating with us so we can work together towards a solution that benefits everyone.”

As for Maria, she’s not holding her breath. “I hope they mean it,” she says, looking out at the steady stream of vehicles. “But until I see change, I’ll keep waking up to the sound of trucks.”