James Debono

The Sliema Local Council has decided to send the report it commissioned about the Sliema coast, which had warned about the possibility of a collapse of the promenade on the Ghar id-Dud seafront, to the relevant authorities.
The report calls for a study on the stability of the Ghar id-Dud caves, and for mitigation measures to prevent a potentially tragic collapse of the overlying promenade: a popular venue for joggers, strollers and families alike, especially in summer.
The contents of the report, which warned of possible fatalities should the caves collapse when the promenade was full of people, was revealed by MaltaToday last month. The report does not say how imminent the danger is.
“The report was discussed in the council meeting and it was unanimously decided that it should be sent to the relevant authorities for the necessary action to be taken from their part,” Sliema mayor Marina Arrigo told MaltaToday. Contacted by MaltaToday, Labour councillor Martin Debono called on MEPA to be careful when issuing permits in the area to not to destabilise the caves.
A study conducted by MEPA in the past had described Ghar il-Lembi as “very weak” and Ghar id-Dud as “weak”. On the basis of this advice, the MEPA board had recommended the demolition of Ghar il-Lembi to make way for a carpark. But since than these plans have been shelved.
MEPA’s reports also highlighted the scientific importance of the caves in the area and called for their protection.
A spokesperson for the Environment Ministry had previously told this newspaper that further analysis of the structural stability of Għar il-Lembi will be conducted, and advice will be sought as to the best solution to prevent further deterioration, and possibly to strengthen the supporting layers below the road and promenade.

jdebono@mediatoday.com.mt