ONE of Simbo’s pride is the recently upgraded bridge connecting the two main islands of Ngarovo and Nusa Simbo.
The bridge was constructed over a six months period and was completed in early 2013. Its one of the projects under the tsunami recovery project made possible through the partnership of the Western Provincial Government, National Government and aid donors.
The bridge was first constructed in 1974 and was used to connect the roads linking the two main islands of Simbo when traders are still operating coconut plantation on the island.
One of the elders on the island Kopa Rakena speaking to the Solomon Star during my visit to the island over the festive season said, the bridge plays a vital role in connecting the two islands during the colonial trading days.
The two islands is connected by well constructed roads which can accommodate tractors or vehicles.
I’m told there used to be trucks using the road to transport copra and other market produce for the people.
So the island still holds the potential to develop its coconut industry if there is a tractor or a hilux to transport copra to a buying point or the wharf.
The road link on the island also provided the opportunity for those kids and youths with bicycles to enjoy their ride along the roads connecting the communities.
It had offered the people to move between the two islands without much difficulties by foot and bicycle.
The upgraded bridge provides a good link for the two islands, and the islanders are definitely benefiting from it.
By MOFFAT MAMU
