Infrastructure Malta Accused of Damaging Tarxien Cistern by Ignoring Plans
In brief
- A subterranean cistern in Tarxien suffered damage during works conducted by Infrastructure Malta.
- A Nationalist Party MP claimed the agency knew about the reservoir but failed to review site plans.
- The opposition attributed the collapse to negligence and inadequate planning prior to excavation.
A subterranean cistern in Tarxien was damaged during recent roadworks conducted by Infrastructure Malta, prompting criticism over the management of local infrastructure projects.
The incident came to light following statements from the Nationalist Party, which alleged that the government roads agency had prior knowledge of the reservoir's presence beneath the work site.
According to an opposition member of parliament, workers damaged the underground structure because project supervisors failed to consult existing site plans before starting the intervention.
Subterranean features such as wells, cellars, and historic rainwater cisterns are widespread across Maltese village cores, requiring careful verification before heavy equipment is deployed.
The collapse has drawn attention to procedures followed by public contractors when carrying out excavation and resurfacing works in residential areas.
Critics called for improved oversight and stricter adherence to architectural records to ensure historic infrastructure is safeguarded during future roadworks.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. Both outlets reported the claims regarding the damaged Tarxien cistern consistently, focusing on the allegations made against Infrastructure Malta.