BY SAMIE WAIKORI
Minister for Infrastructure Development, Ricky Fuo’o, says the ministry’s road development focus has shifted towards asphalt to ensure higher-quality infrastructure in the country.
While acknowledging that asphalt is more expensive, Fuo’o emphasized that this is the direction the ministry is taking to improve the long-term durability of the nation’s roads.
“We want to focus on asphalt as part of our move toward higher-quality infrastructure. It will require more funding, but it’s essential for the country’s development,” he said.
He explained that the ministry has redefined its approach, moving away from chip seal or tarseal to prioritize asphalt, though there is still a need for them in certain road upgrade projects.
The minister also stated that the ministry has provided clear instructions to its partners regarding road standards, and those guidelines are already being implemented to enhance the country’s road network.
For Honiara, Fuo’o confirmed that asphalt will be primarily used for heavily trafficked areas. For feeder roads, however, chip seal might still be used instead of dirt roads.
He said asphalt has been used for road upgrades in Honiara and other parts of the country, and this will continue for future road projects.
Fuo’o highlighted that this is the ministry’s commitment to raise the quality standard of infrastructure to ensure longevity.
The minister said no matter how good the roads are, if strong road management measures are not in place, the situation will not improve.
This is one of the main reasons why the ministry plans to amend the Road Transport Act.
Photo: MID
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