The government, through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has assured the business community and the public that it is working hard to address challenges affecting the traffic.
Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), acknowledges the recent Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) concerns regarding road congestion and its impact on businesses, particularly within Honiara.
“We understand that ongoing infrastructure projects, specifically the Solomon Water Sewer Line Installation Project and the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), are contributing to these challenges.
“We want to assure the business community that our MID is actively working to mitigate the effects of these projects,” MID says in a statement today.
The Solomon Water Sewer line installation project, undertaken by McConnell Dowell Construction, is nearing full completion.
The project, which involves the installation of a sewer line from Ranadi to the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Head Office, is expected to be completed by the end of March 2025.
Once the project is completed, road sections currently under construction will be reopened as reinstatement works are completed.
This will restore normal traffic flow on the affected roads east of Honiara.
Under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), it involves upgrading the Heritage Park to White River two-lane road to a four-lane road, with contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) expected to commence laying of asphalt by April 2025.
“So overall, completion of this road section from White River to the town ground roundabout is anticipated by December 2025.
“Furthermore, the road section from Town Ground to Honiara City Council Market is undergoing rehabilitation.
“To alleviate congestion in the Central Business District during this period, MID has engaged a contractor to upgrade and maintain Hibiscus Avenue strip, thereby providing an alternative route and helping ease traffic flow,” the statement said.
The LMCP contractor was requested to carry out grading works on crucial road sections within their project area immediately after each heavy downpour as experienced recently.
MID also collaborates with the contractor to conduct regular watering of the road surfaces to suppress dust, especially in areas impacted by construction activities.
This action is intended to improve air quality and enhance the safety and comfort of road users.
“We are coordinating with contractors, consultants, Honiara City Council, and Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) to ensure traffic safety protocols are strictly observed.
“MID remains committed to minimizing disruptions and delivering vital infrastructure improvements that will ultimately benefit the Honiara City and the flow of business.
“We thank the public for their cooperation with site regulations and appreciate the Solomon Islands Business Chamber’s understanding as we work towards these critical upgrades,” the statement said.
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