Hailey Borg
Malta’s three ridehailing platforms have been ordered to block some 900 y-plated cabs in a bid to
clamp down on abusive on-street parking.
In an official notice issued by Transport Malta earlier this week, platforms Bolt, eCabs, and Uber
were directed to suspend service to a list of some 900 y-plate operators after these failed to secure
what is known as Public Service Garage, where cabs are meant to be parked while not in use.
The clampdown comes after repeated extensions allowing noncompliant y-plate operators grace
periods to apply for and secure a garage space.
The estimated 900 suspended vehicles, make up roughly a fifth of the 5,000 y-plates active on
Maltese roads. (Source: https://nso.gov.mt/motor-vehicles-q3-2024/ )
It is understood that the decision will not have any major impact on the price of cabs as the
Transport Malta enforcement comes during a post-holiday season lull that means there is more than
enough supply to meet demand for rides
What Is a Public Service Garage?
According to Maltese law, anyone operating a vehicle rental or leasing service must also maintain a
PSG.
In essence, to run a y-plate service, it is not enough to own the vehicles; operators must have a
garage that meets stringent safety, insurance, and maintenance standards.
PSG licences are issued by Transport Malta but only after a permit has been issued by the Planning
Authority.
October 2023 – Introduction of subsidiary legislation 499.68, to regulation 78 of the Light Passenger
Transport Services and Vehicle Hire Services Regulations. All y-plate operators and fleets urged to
get in line.
October 2024 – Notice sent to all y-plate fleet operators (See image). This provided an extension
until December 18 2024 to have at least applied for a PSG.
October 2024 – Notice sent to all y-plate fleet operators (See image). This provided an extension
until December 18 2024 to have at least applied for a PSG.
January 2025 – Transport Malta writes to all platforms (Bolt, eCabs, Uber) directing them to suspend some 900 y-plates over their failure to apply for a PSG.
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