Press Release
6th September 2024
Completion of North Road Works in Malaita Province
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) is pleased to announce the successful completion of routine maintenance, regravelling, spot upgrading for climate resiliency, and road safety improvement works for 17 kilometres of the North Road in Malaita Province. The road is a vital link connecting key locations such as the provincial capital, Auki Jetty and Market, Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield, and Kilu’ufi Hospital, with Dala (Forcim) Market and communities along North and East Roads. The works have entered its Defects Liability Period (DLP), marking a significant milestone in enhancing transportation and economic growth in the region. These works are being funded by the World Bank through the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP) and implemented by MID.
The North Road works were carried out by the local contractor Exodus Trade Development Limited, with construction supervision provided by SMEC. Key achievements include the installation of 200 meters of concrete pavement and 1,950 meters of reinforced concrete drains, the replacement of 9 cross culverts, the construction of a box culvert, and the installation of 49 road signs and 287 marker posts. These improvements are expected to have a profound impact on the local economy by improving access to key resources and facilitating the movement of goods and people.
The works commenced on July 18, 2023, substantially completed on August 9, 2024, and are now under the DLP for 12 months, lasting until August 9, 2025. During this period, the contractor will conduct regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the road meets the highest standards of quality and safety. This phase is crucial in ensuring the longevity and durability of the infrastructure, providing long-term benefits to the people of Malaita.
As the DLP progresses, MID will continue to monitor the road's condition and collaborate with the contractor to address any issues that may arise. The successful completion of the North Road is part of a broader strategy to enhance infrastructure across Solomon Islands, supporting sustainable development and economic growth.
"We are thrilled to see the North Road works reach this important milestone. The completion of this road is a significant achievement for Malaita Province and reflects our commitment to improving infrastructure throughout Solomon Islands. We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the road serves the people of Malaita for many years to come,’’ said Allan Lilia, Permanent Secretary of MID.
In addition to the SIRAP investments in Malaita, the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) is building four new bridges in Malaita (Kolofe1, Kolofe2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira Bridges), upgrading Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield, investing in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, along with supporting regional airport maintenance.
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