In recent weeks, the Public Works Department has commenced works to repair the extensive damage sustained at Għar Lapsi following the severe storm Harry that affected the country.This project is being implemented in several phases and aims to reinforce the infrastructure that suffered significant damage, enhance safety and improve the area’s appearance, while ensuring long-term resilience against harsh weather conditions.The first phase of works focuses on repairing the ramp and access routes leading to Għar Lapsi bay. These works are being carried out by Public Works Department employees. Over the past week, a large void caused by wave impact has been filled with approximately 90 cubic metres of concrete. Preparatory works are currently underway to complete this area, which will provide additional seating space and safer access through improved and more accessible steps.A small jetty measuring approximately 12 metres, which was completely destroyed, will also be rebuilt to restore safe access to the sea. In addition, substantial quantities of concrete and rock that were scattered across the bay have been removed.The second phase involves mitigation and consolidation works on the cliff face on the western side of Għar Lapsi. This area experienced significant erosion exceeding one metre, leading to the collapse of around 60 tonnes of rock, which blocked the surrounding passage and damaged the protective netting.Following detailed geotechnical studies, other hazardous areas have also been identified. The Department is currently finalising the necessary technical solutions to eliminate these risks. Works on this phase are expected to begin in early June.The third phase includes the reconstruction of the slipway, which is essential for boat access. This will involve the construction of a concrete retaining wall along the slipway, as well as the reformation of its surface. The jetties on both sides will also be rebuilt.To increase protection against severe weather, the slipway will be safeguarded by a rock armour system, with individual rocks weighing up to six tonnes. Considerable amounts of rock will also be removed from the seabed and from the footprint of the slipway at Għar Miżun.These works will be carried out by a contractor following the conclusion of the procurement process, which is expected to be finalised next week. Works are therefore anticipated to commence in mid-May.The final phase of the project will focus on the embellishment of the site. This includes the installation of new paving across different areas, the removal of overhead cables and their relocation underground, as well as the installation of railings and a new CCTV system, among other improvements.Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works, Omar Farrugia, stated that works at Għar Lapsi “have been ongoing and will continue so that we can truly deliver on our promise to return it to the Maltese and Gozitan people.”Farrugia explained that the project has been divided into four phases: “first, to recreate the access ramp to Għar Lapsi; second, to safeguard health and safety and strengthen the rock formations behind me [where the cave is]; third, to reconstruct the slipway and jetty for fishermen towards Għar Miżun, where the tender closes next week and works are expected to begin in mid-May; and finally, the embellishment phase, where we will undoubtedly enhance and beautify Għar Lapsi.”Farrugia concluded by stating that all these works “will bring together what we wish to see at Għar Lapsi, not just today, but for the next 50 years.”Siġġiewi Councillor Bertu Pace added that, together with Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia and Public Works Department architects, they are “working closely to ensure the smooth implementation of the works, particularly to guarantee greater public safety once completed and stronger protection to prevent similar damage from recurring.”What do you make of this?•