Communities in Malaita Province are a step closer to getting a safer and more reliable Fiu River Bridge, with the Solomon Islands Government officially launching the tender for its long-awaited replacement.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has called for bids to construct the new bridge under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), supported through a proposed Second Additional Financing from the World Bank.

The tender opened on 9 July and closes on 18 September 2026.

The project marks a major milestone in replacing the ageing bridge with a modern, climate-resilient structure designed to improve connectivity and withstand increasingly severe weather events.

The existing 77-metre steel truss bridge will be replaced by an 84-metre two-lane bridge featuring a dedicated pedestrian walkway.

The project also includes new bridge foundations and superstructure, upgraded approach roads, improved drainage, scour protection, embankment and pavement works, road safety features, and demolition of the existing bridge.

Once completed, the new crossing will provide safer, more reliable access for communities, businesses and travellers while reducing disruptions caused by heavy rainfall and flooding.

It will also improve access to schools, health facilities, markets and other essential services.

Acting Permanent Secretary for Infrastructure Development, Mike Qaqara, said the project would deliver lasting benefits for communities that rely on the crossing every day.

“The Fiu River Bridge is more than just a bridge,” Qaqara said.

“It is a vital connection for families, businesses and essential services,” he added.

“Opening the tender brings us one step closer to delivering a modern crossing that will improve safety, strengthen resilience to climate change and provide reliable access for everyone who depends on this route.”

Qaqara reaffirmed the Government’s commitment, with support from the World Bank through SIRAP2, to investing in transport infrastructure that strengthens economic growth, improves livelihoods and builds resilience to future climate challenges.

He also encouraged qualified contractors to participate in the competitive tender process.

The procurement will be conducted under the World Bank’s procurement regulations to ensure a fair, transparent and competitive bidding process.

The Fiu River Bridge replacement forms part of a broader package of transport infrastructure investments being delivered under SIRAP2 to improve the safety, resilience and reliability of Solomon Islands’ road and aviation networks.

Other major projects under the programme include:

Construction of the new Aviation Complex Building and Air Traffic Control Towers in Honiara and Munda.

Upgrades to Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province.

Improvements to air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu provinces.

Maintenance of regional airports.

Rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori.

Sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction in Malaita.