What to expect when buses go free next month

The offer of free public transport for all residents starting on October 1 will increase passenger numbers to pre-pandemic levels by the end of this year, Transport Malta has predicted.

The number of people travelling by bus reached its highest point in 2019 but COVID-19 then changed traveller behaviour, the government’s transport regulator said in answer to questions.

Weeks away from the introduction of free public transport, predictive models are projecting an increase in demand for trips.

Plans to expand route frequency will factor in the expected rise in demand. Buses running at next to full capacity or at full capacity are also being identified before free public transportation is rolled out, TM said.

You will need a Tallinja card to ride for free

When he announced the scheme during last year's budget, Finance Minister Clyde Caruana said the measure will apply to all residents and holders of the Tallinja card, meaning tourists will still need to pay the fare.

Currently, people pay for their trips using the credit held on their Tallinja card, at the rate of 75c per journey. Otherwise, they pay the bus driver in cash or by credit card at the rate of €2 in summer and €1.50 in...