Solomon Islands Opposition leader Matthew Wale has called on the Government to urgently address the deteriorating roads and transport infrastructure in the country.
Wale said reports of damages to critical infrastructures in Malaita and Guadalcanal provinces as a result of the ongoing bad weather is putting lives at risk.
He added he has received reports of damage to Tabalia bridge which is a lifeline for people of Northwest, West, & South Guadalcanal that h needs urgent attention that must not wait for the rain to stop.
“We do not want to force communities that rely on that bridge to travel by sea in the current weather conditions,” the Opposition leader stated.
“There may be other similar damage to critical infrastructure which needs to be given urgent attention,” he said.
Wale added the bridges are lifelines for our people and the Government must act now to prevent further damage and protect communities.
He said the bad weather has caused serious concern for communities relying on key bridges with reports of damage, flooding, and restricted access.
He said these conditions have disrupted transport, isolated rural communities, and delayed access to health services, schools, and markets.
“Every time we experience bad weather, bridges and infrastructures are damaged or become unsafe.
“Our people should not be cut off from essential services because of poor planning and delayed action,” he said.
In and around Honiara the bad weather has again resulted in damages to roads in the city as well as feeder roads.
Wale said whilst he acknowledged the ongoing road upgrade around Honiara there should be no excuse for immediate maintenance.
The Leader of Opposition said the situation highlights years of neglect and failure to prioritise maintenance of vital infrastructure.
Wale also stressed the need for transparency and accountability in infrastructure spending to ensure projects are built to proper standards and withstand extreme weather.
“It is becoming frustrating that roads in some parts of the city and feeder roads are intended to be maintained every week.
“There seem to be no accountability and proper standards by companies when it comes to maintaining roads that can withstand bad weather,” he said.
The Opposition is calling on the Government to immediately:
- Conduct urgent safety assessments of all affected bridges especially in Malaita and Guadalcanal
- Carry out emergency repairs and provide temporary crossings where necessary
- Commit funding for long-term, climate-resilient bridge construction
In-Depth Solomons has sought comments from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).
