By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has continued planning to upgrade roads in Malaita Province.
A public hearing was conducted in six communities by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management, and Meteorology (MECDM) to hear their findings and feedback.
A statement from MID stated that leading up to their plans, a public hearing was held to discuss and get feedback from communities to avoid disruption and disturbance.
The communities where the public hearing took place include Fouo, Kwaiafa, Fera’abu, Fabaratalo, Fote, and Buma.
The MID Permanent Secretary, Allan Lilia, said the hearing was important for community voices in shaping the project.
He said the benefits of the improved roads will include enhanced access to markets, health services, education, and other essential services.
“The project is currently at the evaluation stage, with contractors to be confirmed once procurement processes are completed,” he said.
The upgrade road projects include:
1) Sealing of 12 km of North Road (Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction to Kwaisuliniu)
2) Rehabilitation of 21 km of East Road (Baratalo to Atori)
3) Climate-resilient road infrastructure to improve long-term durability.
The statement said the completion of the upgrades will improve connectivity and accessibility across Malaita, especially for rural communities in the north and east, supporting safer, more reliable travel for all.
The road upgrade will be funded by the World Bank under the second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2).
Photo credit: MID
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