The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has begun community consultations in Malaita ahead of major road improvement works along the province’s north and east roads.
The road works would be undertaken under SIRAP2 (Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project) – a World Bank-funded project.
A statement from SIRAP2 says consultation teams are now visiting communities across the project areas.
“The teams include MID officials and the SIRAP2 Project Support Team. Construction supervision consultant Egis is also taking part,” the statement said.
Representatives from both contractors have joined the consultations and meetings alongside all stakeholders.
“The teams are meeting provincial leaders and government officials. They are also meeting landowners, community leaders and local residents,” the statement added.
The consultations outlined project timelines and planned construction activities.
“The teams also discuss environmental and social safeguards. Traffic management plans are being explained to communities, Residents are also informed about local employment opportunities.”
“The consultations intended to build community understanding, cooperation and allow residents to raise questions and concerns.” the statement said.
Following a competitive procurement process, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) secured the North Road contract whilst the Trades Transformation Company Limited (TTCL) won the East Road contract.
CCECC will seal about 12 kilometres of North Road – the works stretch from Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction to Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
TTCL will maintain and regravel about 21 kilometres of East Road. The section runs from Baratolo to Atori.
Acting Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara welcomed the project’s commencement.
“These road upgrades will deliver significant benefits to Malaita communities,” Qaqara said.
“Better roads will improve access to businesses and essential services,” he added.
“They will also make travel safer and more reliable.We encourage communities to work closely with project teams and contractors. Community support will help ensure successful project delivery,” he added.
The Government says the upgrades will improve transport across Malaita, aiming to reduce travel times, vehicle operating costs, improve road safety and all-weather access to vital services.
The construction phase will also be a boost for local jobs and business opportunities.
SIRAP2 also supports wider investments in roads and aviation nationwide.
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