Access Restored for 19 Kilometers of East Road

Maintenance and upgrades are progressing well for 21 kilometers of Malaita’s East Road from Dala.

The upgrades are supported by the World Bank through the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP) and is implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.

Local contractor, Trades Transformation Company Limited, has removed obstacles and almost completed all emergency works including clearing, spot repairs, and gravelling.

The contractor has also re-graveled 5 kilometers of East Road from Dala’s Forcim Market. As a result of these works under SIRAP, access has been restored for 19 kilometers of the East Road.

While work has been affected by severe weather conditions, significant effort has been made to fully utilize available working weather conditions.

Last week, a World Bank team visited the sites on the North and East Roads commending the progress made in the face of challenging weather conditions.

Communities along the East Road and beyond have also expressed support and appreciation for the ongoing works and a Community Advisory Committee is now being established to ensure communities near the works and along the roads remain informed, engaged, and have opportunities to raise any issues with the contractor.

The creation of the Community Advisory Committee supports the Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s mission statement to “enhance the prosperity and participation of the community level on a voluntary basis.”

Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development,  Allan Lilia said “these upgrades will improve connectivity, support trade and promote commercial activity by facilitating the movement of goods and services. They will also provide safer and more efficient access to markets, social services, and medical attention for the people of East Malaita.”

In addition to SIRAP, the World Bank supported SIRAP2 is also constructing four new bridges in Malaita (Kolofe 1, Kolofe 2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira Bridges), upgrading roads in Noro, providing upgrades to Honiara, Munda, and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airports, upgrading air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.

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– Solomon Islands Roads & Aviation Project (SIRAP)