Traffic jam fears as fireworks go ahead

The St Venera tunnels will be closed for two hours this evening, after the police granted permission to let off fireworks from a field next to this busy arterial road. It is the first time since 2007 that such permission has been granted. While fireworks enthusiasts have hailed the decision to let off fireworks from the field between 8pm and 10pm, others were left fuming knowing it will likely lead to traffic jams. The Sunday Times of Malta has learnt that up to 15 policemen will be involved to re-route traffic through secondary roads, even though the road closure was not mentioned on Transport Malta’s website. Though the fireworks programme is spread over two days, no permission was sought for last night’s show. When no closure is required, organisers are only allowed to let off small petards, similar to those sent up from rooftops in built-up areas. Contacted by The Sunday Times of Malta yesterday a representative of Għaqda tan-Nar 26 ta’ Lulju declined to comment. On the other hand, the police confirmed that the Ħamrun police station had authorised the road’s closure this evening. With the opening of Mater Dei Hospital in 2008, the authorities had stopped granting permission...