The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has raised concern over the continued damage to road signs and other public infrastructure delivered under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), urging road users and communities to help protect these important public assets.
A statement from the project office said the road upgrades and permanent signage represent a significant investment in improving road safety, connectivity and access for communities.
“However, recent incidents involving damage to road signs along the Henderson – Alligator corridor have raised concerns about the protection and long-term sustainability of the infrastructure,” the statement said.
The statement cited two recent incidents at locations including the Neiko bus stop on the seaside near the eastern end of Henderson Airport and another location near the junction leading to the Bomb Disposal area at Alligator.
“At one location, the condition of the sign appeared consistent with it having been struck by a vehicle.”
The statement said on the morning of 9 September 2026, another road sign near the Bomb Disposal junction at Alligator, east of Honiara, was found with its right-hand corner slightly bent.
There were no visible impact marks on the steel post or tyre marks around its base.
“Based on the condition of the sign, MID believes it may have been damaged deliberately, possibly using a piece of wood.
“Even seemingly minor damage can compromise the durability, appearance and effectiveness of permanent road signs, while creating additional costs for repairs and replacement.”
The Ministry said continued vandalism and theft could also lead to the gradual deterioration of public infrastructure if damaged facilities are not promptly repaired or replaced.
MID Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara expressed disappointment over the damage and stressed that public infrastructure should be treated with care and respect.
“It is very sad and disappointing to see road signs and other road facilities being damaged,” Qaqara said.
“These signs do not harm or irritate anyone,” he added.
“They are installed to provide information, improve road safety and help people use our roads properly.
Qaqara said the road upgrades and facilities delivered through the LMCP represented a significant investment in the country’s transport infrastructure.
“When these facilities are damaged, we are affecting infrastructure that has been provided for the benefit and safety of our people.”
Qaqara called on road users and the general public to take greater care of public infrastructure and encouraged communities to help safeguard facilities along the upgraded road corridors.
The road facilities form part of the LMCP, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Solomon Islands Government, to improve land and maritime connectivity and strengthen transport infrastructure across the country.