Construction at Honiara International Port is progressing well, with the project moving towards the next stage of the International Berth 1 upgrade.
Current works include fabricating and installing temporary structures to support marine piling operations.
The upgrade is being carried out under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP). And it includes a crane platform and a pile guiding frame for the planned 30-metre seaward extension of International Berth 1.
“The temporary structures are essential to the construction process,” a statement from LMCP said.
“The crane platform will provide a stable working area for heavy equipment in the marine environment,” it added.
“The pile guiding frame will help ensure foundation piles are installed at the correct alignment and depth.
“This will be critical to the strength and long-term performance of the extended wharf.
“Once the temporary works are completed, the contractor will begin installing the permanent piles.
“This will mark another major milestone in the port upgrade.”
The 30-metre extension will increase the berth’s capacity and improve its operational efficiency.
It will also support safer and more efficient handling of vessels and cargo over the wharf’s 50-year design life.
The LMCP also includes two new domestic rural wharves at Kirakira in Makira-Ulawa Province and Ahanga in Rennell and Bellona Province.
Together, the projects are expected to improve the efficiency and reliability of maritime transport across Solomon Islands.
The Honiara upgrade will also strengthen the port’s role as the country’s main international maritime gateway.
“Improved port infrastructure will help support growing trade and economic activity.
“It will also strengthen the country’s ability to meet future transport and logistics demands,” the statement said.
MID Acting Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara said the progress demonstrated the Government’s commitment to critical transport infrastructure.
“The progress being achieved at Honiara International Port is encouraging,” Qaqara said.
“It reflects the Government’s continued commitment to infrastructure that supports economic growth and national connectivity,” he added.
Qaqara said the International Berth 1 extension would improve port capacity and functionality.
“It will contribute to more efficient maritime transport services,” he said.
The International Berth upgrade is part of the wider LMCP programme.
The project is led by the Solomon Islands Government and the Solomon Islands Ports Authority.
It receives financial and technical support from the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Solomon Islands.
The LMCP aims to strengthen key road and maritime infrastructure across the country.
The Government said improved transport connectivity will support trade, economic growth and access to essential goods and services.
It also remains committed to delivering sustainable and climate-resilient transport infrastructure.
The investment is expected to improve the safety, reliability and efficiency of Solomon Islands’ transport network.
