The only known surviving train carriage used in Malta could be restored to its former glory, should the government approve funding for the project.
The historical green carriage at Ġnien L-Istazzjon, Birkirkara, once attracted countless schoolchildren, but quickly lost its appeal when it was damaged by vandals.
Despite the installation of security cameras and the local council's decision to employ a watchman at night, its wooden planks continue to be splintered, glass shattered and upholstery shredded, mayor Michael Fenech Adami said.
"Unfortunately, we are still receiving numerous reports of vandalism and even though gates are closed at night, vandals seem to be finding a way in," he said.
The carriage, whose platform at the back has also gone missing, falls under the responsibility of the local council, which, however, lacks the necessary funds to restore it.
"Since the works were estimated to cost about €30,000, we recently asked the government to provide the funds. Although we have not yet received a reply I'm hopeful our request will be approved," Mr Fenech Adami said.
Should the local council's wish become a reality, the carriage would actually be restored for the second time.
Paul Galea, a train enthusiast and member of the Association for Model Engineers, said the carriage was in private hands before it was reclaimed by the government.
"It was then restored by government employees and although many complain that the works were not carried out properly, we must keep in mind that the methods used were the best available at the time," he said.
He commended the local council which, he said, was doing all it could to restore the carriage.
Mr Galea is also working to set up a foundation dedicated to raising public awareness about the situation and working with local councils to turn former train stations into attractions.
"It's an ambitious project and will take time but with the number of people interested in the former railway, we can make it happen," he said.
Moreover, Mr Galea suspects that items once used by the train service may still be lying in private hands and would like to make these available to the public by reaching an agreement with those involved.
The idea of having a railway in Malta was sparked by a desire to shorten the time to travel from Valletta to Mdina back in 1870 but it was not until 1883 that the first train engine was fired up.
However, in 1890, it became clear that the company was bankrupt and the railways closed down. In 1892, the government reopened the line and eventually made several improvements and extensions to the system.
It finally closed down for good in 1931 because it could not compete with the tram and bus service.