The new Mrieħel underpass project that creates a direct route from Mdina Road to the Mrieħel Bypass was announced as complete on Monday afternoon.
The project, which began back in July 2021, involved the construction of a two-lane 60-metre underpass beneath a new roundabout. The new infrastructure replaces the old traffic lights system at the crossroads between Balzan, Birkirkara and Mrieħel.
A pedestrian and cycling crossing and landscaping are also part of the Mrieħel project.
The underpass was opened to traffic back in October.
Through the new tunnel, the main eastbound traffic flows from Mdina Road, Balzan towards the Mrieħel Bypass and is grade-separated from the other flows converging at the newly built roundabout.
The announcement was made by Infrastructure Minister Aaron Farrugia and Infrastructure Malta (IM) CEO Ivan Falzon.
Farrugia said the project would complement the Central Link project in Attard, Balzan, Birkirkara and Mrieħel.
It was explained that the project has made it quicker and safer for road users travelling to nearby destinations and has reduced traffic volumes.
Further upgrades planned for area
The minister also announced that IM is also implementing a project upgrade in the southbound carriageway of the Mrieħel bypass and upgrading the existing junction leading to the Mrieħel Industrial Estate.
It was explained that the works include the upgrade of 1.5 kilometres of crash barriers and motorcycle strips, the upgrade of the existing stormwater system and the building of 800-metres of new footpaths.
It also includes the complete rebuilding of l-Intornjatur Road, replacing the existing stormwater tunnel, upgrading its underground networks and resurfacing the road.
Farrugia said the project will continue to improve connectivity, alleviate the traffic problem on the island, as well as improve safety for everyone who uses the roads.
"But our work does not stop there, as through these further upgrades in the southbound carriageway of the Mrieħel Bypass, we are continuing to invest in this area to further improve the traffic situation," Farrugia said.