As part of the ongoing specific and routine road maintenance project a community awareness programme was launched last week in West Honiara and is now underway.
The Safeguards Team of the Ministry of Infrastructure (MID) are rolling out the outreach program.
The team has actively engaged with residents living along the maintenance routes to facilitate a smooth process and enhance safety during construction operations.
So far, the team has visited the roads in Mbokona, Vasekana, Tasahe Drive, Wind Valley, and Namoruka, informing community members about the importance of relocating structures that encroach on road corridors (right-of-way).
Certain sections of feeder roads and drainage systems in Honiara have become obstructed due to unauthorised encroachments, including the erection of betel nut stalls, fences, house extensions, and other structures.
These encroachments pose significant challenges for the government and road construction crews as they strive to expedite essential maintenance and expansion tasks.
Road reserves are critical areas designated for future expansions and serve as essential infrastructure for bus stops and utility services (electricity, water/sewage, communication lines), all aimed at improving connectivity and transportation efficiency across Honiara city.
Roxsley Basil, Chief Officer of MID Safeguards, emphasised the need for residents to adhere to road safety guidelines and support the road expansion initiatives.
He stressed that these measures are vital during the construction and for ensuring long-term safety and functionality once the roads are fully operational.
“Building structures within designated road corridors poses significant risks to residents’ property,” Mr Basil noted.
“Careless driving could result in property damage or, in tragic cases, loss of life.”
In addition, the Safeguards team is actively engaging with owners of derelict vehicles parked along the construction routes, as these vehicles obstruct the project’s progress and disrupt the ongoing roadworks.
Owners of derelict vehicles are strongly urged to remove them promptly to prevent delays and ensure smooth progress on the road expansion project.
Clearing these obstructions is essential for improving transportation infrastructure, enhancing safety, and providing contractors with the clear space needed to carry out their work efficiently.
“We appreciate the cooperation of the community during this much-needed roadworks, and we encourage open communication between residents and our team to address any concerns or questions that may arise,” Mr Basil stated.
The unsealed roads in West Honiara have been divided into four lots, and contractors are currently on-site conducting initial work, such as patrol grading, vegetation clearance, and drainage improvements.
– MID Press
Road work upgrade set to start soon.
