The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has raised concerns over suspected deliberate damage to streetlighting infrastructure along the newly constructed Tandai Highway, west Honiara.

The latest incident involved severe fire damage to an underground streetlighting cable at St John School Junction.

“The cable is located beside the concrete footpath, on the unpaved shoulder alongside the carriageway, and forms part of the streetlighting system installed under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP),” a statement from MID says.

“An inspection found extensive heat damage to an exposed section of the cable, including an above-ground loop or connection,” the statement added.

“The outer insulation had melted and charred, leaving the internal copper conductors exposed and blackened.

“The cable is no longer usable and requires repair or replacement.”

The statement said a partially burned white cloth or rag was found beside the damaged cable.

“A safety traffic cone placed over the exposed connection for protection had also melted and burned down to its base ring.

“The physical evidence raises concerns that the cable may have been deliberately set on fire.

“However, further investigation is needed to establish the exact circumstances of the incident.”

MID says similar incidents involving damage to road infrastructure have occurred in the past, highlighting the need for greater public awareness and care in protecting these valuable public assets.

MID reminds residents and road users to burn rubbish well away from electrical cables, drainage pipes and other road infrastructure.

“Uncontrolled fires or burning rubbish too close to these facilities can cause serious damage, disrupt essential services and result in costly repairs.”

Guadalcanal Electrical Limited (GEL), the subcontractor engaged by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) for streetlighting works under LMCP, is responsible for the project’s streetlighting installation.

MID Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara said road infrastructure represented a significant public investment designed to improve safety, accessibility and connectivity for communities.

“Streetlighting and other road facilities are provided for the benefit of all road users,” Qaqara said.

“We encourage communities to take ownership of these public assets and work together to ensure they are protected and maintained for the long-term benefit of everyone,” he added.

He also urged communities to exercise caution when burning rubbish and keep fires well away from roadside infrastructure to prevent avoidable damage.

Qaqara urged the public to report suspicious activities and electrical hazards to the relevant authorities.

“Members of the public should avoid touching exposed cables, which may pose a serious safety risk.

“The Ministry remains committed to delivering safer and more accessible transport infrastructure through LMCP and other development projects.

“Protecting these facilities requires the cooperation of residents, businesses and road users.”

The road upgrade and improvement works are being implemented under LMCP with financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Solomon Islands Government.