Pooling urged for Car Free Day

Malta joins the rest of Europe in marking Car Free Day on September 22 with the theme Clever Commuting. The aim of the activity is to help the public understand the benefits of sustainable methods of transport and policies for the improvement of air quality.

It is also aimed to decrease noise pollution and give citizens a better life, Environment Minister George Pullicino said. This year, car-pooling is being encouraged as a sustainable and intelligent way to go from place to place, he said. Between 7 and 9 a.m. on September 22, wardens in various localities will take note of the registration numbers of cars carrying at least three passengers but not more than the maximum the vehicle can take.

These drivers and passengers will be automatically eligible to win prizes, which will be drawn through a lottery. Mr Pullicino urged the public, particularly those who work, to agree to travel in one car.

It was also augured that the initiative would carry on after September 22 as it would lead to fewer cars on the road, less traffic and parking problems and more safety.