Just over a month after Gozo’s public transport service has been fully electrified, Gozo’s bus service has recorded more than 332,000 passenger journeys across more than 16,220 trips.

Malta Public Transport said that this ”demonstrates a strong public uptake of the new zero-emission service.”

It also noted that the figure reflects an 11% increase in passenger usage when compared to the same timeframe last year.

During the launch of the fleet in May, Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri said that the €11 million investment ”is the largest ever made in public transport in Gozo and represents an important achievement with the full electrification of the public transport service on the island.”

He said that all diesel buses in Gozo have been replaced with new zero-emission electric vehicles. ”This is made possible by the installation of a smart charger infrastructure that allows the fleet to be charged overnight. These electric buses will mean lower emissions and cleaner air in our villages, quieter roads in communities, and a better quality of life for all residents and visitors.”

The Multi-Modal Hub in Ta’ Xhajma will now also serve as a charging depot for the electric buses operated in Gozo by Malta Public Transport, the Minister said.

Bus routes 302 and 303 also started serving the Ta’ Xhajma facility on their way to and from Victoria. Given that both routes operate every hour, the Minister said that this means two services per hour to Victoria. Routes 302 and 303 also serve localities such as Nadur, Ramla, Xewkija, Ghajnsielem and Qala. Therefore, those using the hub can park their vehicle and continue their journey by public transport.

Photo: MPT

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