Naxxar Mayor Christopher Deguara has called on authorities to step up enforcement at Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, arguing that ongoing abuses by some caravan owners are taking over public land and limiting access to the coast.In a video published by the Naxxar Local Council, Deguara highlighted a number of caravans parked along the coastline which, he said, have extended beyond their designated space by placing furniture, planters, tables and even sofas on public land.He also pointed to caravans without number plates and claimed the council had received reports that some caravans were being rented out.“I ask the authorities, the police and LESA to come here and see with their own eyes what is going on and address the problems here,” Deguara said.The mayor stressed that his criticism was not directed at people who responsibly enjoy caravanning as a hobby, but at those who are allegedly abusing the system.“This video is not against those people who have this pastime, but against those who come here and abuse the system,” he said.Deguara argued that Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq should remain accessible to everyone and warned that increasing numbers of caravans are making it harder for families and members of the public to find space and enjoy the coastline.The issue has long been a point of contention between the council and authorities.The Naxxar Local Council has repeatedly raised concerns about the growing number of caravans in the area and had previously proposed two byelaws aimed at regulating the situation and protecting public access. According to the council, both proposals were rejected by the government.In 2023, regulations were introduced requiring caravan owners to obtain approval and pay a minimum daily fee of €5 when parking near the coast between June and September. Those who fail to comply risk being fined.However, Deguara noted that while permits carry the local council’s logo, the council itself has no authority to approve, reject or enforce them.“If the council cannot have any say over these permits or a role in enforcing them, they should then be issued by the government instead,” he said.The mayor’s appeal comes as a petition launched by resident Zach Demarco surpassed 1,500 signatures in just over a week. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)The petition calls for stricter enforcement against caravans, RVs and boats occupying public coastal areas at Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, including more regular patrols, fines for violators and the removal of unauthorised vehicles.It also proposes the creation of designated parking areas away from the coastline to accommodate caravan owners without restricting public access to the bay.“Without any enforcement, we are giving carte blanche for people to do as they wish,” Deguara warned.What do you make of the issue?Video credits to Naxxar Local Council•