Work on East Road, a crucial transportation route in Malaita Province, is nearing completion following an extensive upgrade funded by the World Bank through the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP).
This investment, implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) and constructed by the local Trades Transformation Company Limited (TTCL), was supervised by SMEC.
The upgrade, which began in October 2023, aims to address the deteriorating condition of 21-kilometre road from Dala, which serves as a vital link for communities in East Malaita.
A statement from SIRAP office says the works involved routine maintenance and regravelling, with appropriate culvert/drainage and concrete reinforcement in steep sections to improve durability and resilience against heavy rains.
Currently, 85% of the work has been completed by TTCL.
The remaining 15% includes concrete pavement works, earthworks, drainage works for both reinforce concrete drains and earth drains, road furniture works, culvert works, and re-gravelling of some sections.
The statement said the milestones achieved so far include the complete installation of Apolo, Tiuni and western approach of Kware Bridge concrete pavement, and delivery of remaining resources and materials on site.
The works are expected to be completed by the end of October 2024.
The Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, commended the efforts of all involved in the works.
“The upgrade of the East Malaita Road is a testament to the Government’s commitment to improving infrastructure across Solomon Islands,” Lilia said.
“This road is vital for the socio-economic development of East Malaita, and its completion will significantly enhance access to essential services and markets for our people,” he added.
“We are deeply grateful to the World Bank for their generous funding, which has made this upgrade possible.’’
The World Bank’s support for the East Malaita Road upgrade is part of its broader commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering sustainable development in Solomon Islands.
The upgraded road is expected to have a profound impact on the region, facilitating easier access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, and fostering economic development.
It will also reduce travel time and transportation costs for local communities, contributing to improved livelihoods.
In addition to the East Malaita Road upgrade, the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project will be constructing four new bridges in Malaita – Kolofe1 and Kolofe2 on North Road, and Su’u Harbor and Bira Bridges on South Road – and includes a range of additional infrastructure upgrades in the road and aviation sector, with the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, including upgrading roads in Noro, providing upgrades to the Honiara and Munda International Airports and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield, providing investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.