M.I.D AND J.I.C.A ANNOUNCED ROAD PROJECT FINAL STAGE

MID and JICA have announced the major road project is now in its final stage. Photo: Courtesy of vsa.org.nz.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development, MID, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency,JICA, have announced a plan to reconstruct the main Honiara Highway is in its final stages.

A government statement said once completed, the reconstruction will reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic safety, especially for pedestrians in Honiara.

A team of engineers and surveyors is currently gathering road design information along the main highway.

Project Formulation Advisor for JICA, Naoko Laka said they are preparing detailed design for the new improved Kukum Highway and to help redesign the layout of improved road junctions.

Permanent Secretary for Infrastructure Development, Moses Virivolomo said project officials have identified five major components of this important, each with the objective of improving the flow of traffic through Honiara and making conditions safer and more convenient for pedestrians.

The five components included the reduction of traffic congestion at the Central Market and improve pedestrian access in the area.

It also plans to redesign the Honiara City Council roundabout and improve the efficiency of the junction and traffic flow around the area. Plans also include widening the New Mataniko Bridge from two to four lanes and replace the old Mataniko Bridge with a modern two lane bridge.

It also includes reconstruction of the Kukum Highway over a three kilometer length between the Honiara City Council and the Ministry of Fisheries and finally redesigning the Vura junction to improve its safety and capacity.