Momentum has renewed calls for its proposed subsidised shared cab scheme after the government revealed that more than five million Y-Plate journeys were recorded between February and May this year.The party said the figures show Maltese commuters are increasingly willing to use alternatives to private cars when they are convenient, reliable and affordable, arguing that they strengthen the case for its proposed Subsidised Shared Cab Initiative.The Subsidised Shared Cab Initiative would see the government partner with ride-hailing apps and Y-Plate operators to introduce subsidised shared journeys. Passengers travelling along similar routes would be matched automatically through existing apps, making shared trips cheaper and more attractive.The proposal allocates €234 million a year in subsidies to support around 60 million shared cab journeys annually.Momentum leader Arnold Cassola said the proposal offers an alternative to building entirely new transport infrastructure, such as a metro, by making use of existing ride-hailing platforms and Y-Plate operators. He further emphasised that bus services must remain the “backbone” of public transport in Malta, with more buses, new routes, and increased frequency remaining priorities.Sustainable Mobility Minister Chris Bonnett revealed yesterday that more than five million Y-Plate journeys were recorded between February and May this year, marking a 68% increase compared to the previous year. He attributed the rise to growing demand for alternative transport from both locals and tourists.Momentum said the figures reinforce the case for its proposal, arguing that a subsidised shared cab scheme could meet rising demand while helping reduce the number of private cars on Malta’s roads. This, the party stated, would be an investment in sustainable mobility, complementing buses, ferries, cycling and walking by providing another practical transport option.“Every shared cab has the potential to remove up to four private cars from Malta’s roads. This means less congestion, lower emissions, reduced parking pressure and shorter travel times for everyone.”The shared cab scheme forms part of Momentum’s broader €842 million transport strategy, which also includes investment in buses, bus lanes, and pedestrian infrastructure. The wider plan also proposes adding 300 buses to increase route frequency and capacity. Momentum says the wider strategy aims to reduce Malta’s passenger car fleet to 200,000 by 2033, returning vehicle numbers to roughly 2005 levels.Momentum calls on the Government to adopt its Shared Cab Initiative and begin discussions with ride-hailing operators to implement a subsidised shared-ride scheme. The technology already exists, the public is clearly embracing alternative transport, and today’s figures show that Malta is ready for the next step.Would you use a subsidised cab share?•