Next stop: Ġnejna bay. Bus gets stuck in sand on popular beach

The bus ended up on the beach after the bus route was obstructed by parked cars

Updated at 11.29am with Malta Public Transport statement

Early morning bathers who made their way to Ġnejna Bay for a refreshing swim on Thursday morning were surprised to find a bus in the middle of the bay. 

Photos shared on social media show the Malta Public Transport bus stuck in the sand. 

So bizarre was the incident that some people questioned whether the photo was AI-generated.

In a statement, Malta Public Transport confirmed a minor incident happened at around 6.15 am involving bus 619.

Since then, the bus has been removed from the beach.

"While attempting to navigate around several parked cars that were obstructing the bus's route, the driver was left with no option but to manoeuvre the vehicle away from the parking area," the statement read.

The company said the manoeuvre was done in the safest course to avoid damage, yet the bus became stuck in the sand.

No injuries were reported, and the driver contacted the control room. A mechanic was dispatched to assist.

"This incident is deeply regretted, and the company apologises for any inconvenience this might have caused," Malta Public Transport said.

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