Momentum demands answers, this time over Ta’ Qali night-time gravel watering incident

Momentum once again has to express deep concern over the latest developments at Ta’ Qali National Park, where, under cover of darkness, a water bowser was reportedly dispatched to irrigate the gravel-covered picnic area. This incident continues to raise serious questions about the transparency and accountability of the authorities managing the park.

Momentum will continue to publicly criticise the continued lack of public disclosure surrounding the controversial decision to replace natural grass with gravel in one of Malta’s most cherished green spaces. Despite repeated calls for clarity and a formal Freedom of Information request submitted over two months ago, the government has failed to provide any documentation or justification for the works carried out.

“This latest act, watering gravel at night, suggests desperation and a troubling attempt to mask the environmental damage inflicted on Ta’ Qali,” said Momentum Leader Arnold Cassola. “Instead of engaging with the public and explaining the logic behind this transformation, the authorities are resorting to covert actions that only deepen public mistrust.”

The stands with civil society groups, environmental experts, and thousands of citizens who have voiced their opposition to the graveling of Ta’ Qali. The park, once a vibrant space for families, children, and pet owners, now risks becoming a sterile and unsafe environment.

“Green spaces are not luxuries, they are essential to our well-being, biodiversity, and community life,” added Arnold Cassola. “ The new video evidence shows the area being secretly watered at night, behind everyone’s back and without any transparent explanation. This is not “maintenance”,  it is damage control done in the dark. This attempt to save face by pouring thousands of litres of precious water onto the gravel is beyond embarrassing; it is an insult to every citizen who is urged to conserve.The authorities clearly know the gravel decision was a bad one, and instead of admitting it, they continue to insult the public’s intelligence.

This mess can still be fixed. The gravel must be removed, the soil restored, and those responsible held to account. The Family Park at Ta’ Qali belongs to the people not to those who think they can act without oversight, consultation, or respect.

Momentum will continue to fight for transparency, accountability, and the restoration of Ta’ Qali’s natural beauty,” concluded Cassola.

Video: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Mbpi9x71j/

There is hope, you can help!

Join Momentum and build a better Malta. Volunteer, donate, or subscribe today!