BY SAMIE WAIKORI
Leaders from stakeholder groups engaged in infrastructure development have raised concerns over recent incidents of vandalism affecting public infrastructure assets in the country.
This includes the recent vandalism at the Su’u and Bira bridges in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, as well as similar incidents reported in Honiara.
Speaking at a press conference organised by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, together with its infrastructure development partners this week, SIRAP 2 Project Manager Mr Richard Farrell and LMCP Team Leader Mr Ian Archer called for greater respect and protection of public infrastructure assets.
Farrell said that several weeks ago, SIRAP completed the Su’u and Bira bridges along the South Road. However, just two days after completion, road signs installed at the sites were vandalised.
He said similar incidents have occurred with other projects implemented under SIRAP, describing the acts as unacceptable and in need of urgent change.
Farrell explained that in the case of the Su’u and Bira bridges, the damaged signs cannot be repaired under the existing contract unless communities are able to fund the replacements themselves.
He stressed that such actions are not representative of the wider community, but rather the work of a small minority with poor intentions.
Farrell also noted that SIRAP has established Community Advisory Committees made up of local leaders, who have worked hard to support the projects. Despite these efforts, some individuals continue to disregard the value of these important road assets.
Archer echoed similar sentiments, calling on the public to respect road safety measures, particularly road signs and other safety features.
He said the Ministry of Infrastructure Development recently issued a press statement following several incidents of vandalism affecting public infrastructure, which he describes as “disappointing”.
Archer emphasised that these safety features are installed for the benefit and protection of the general public, and urges communities to take responsibility in safeguarding them.
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