BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), through its Central Projects Implementation Unit (CPIU), held a stakeholders’ meeting in White River yesterday to update the public and key partners on the ongoing road upgrade work along Mendana Avenue.
This road upgrade is part of a series of similar infrastructure projects, including wharf constructions implemented under the Lands and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP). The LMCP is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) with support from the Solomon Islands government.
The primary goal of the meeting was to inform relevant stakeholders, business owners, and development partners about the proposed road upgrade, which spans from the Heritage Park roundabout to the Commonwealth Junction.
The discussions also focused on strategies to mitigate potential temporary disruptions to both motorists and businesses in the area.
The meeting is an essential part of the construction’s stakeholder engagement process, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to learn about the construction schedules and how potential impacts will be addressed.
LMCP Team Leader and Construction Supervision Consultant, Mr Ian Archer, highlighted the importance of stakeholders being well-informed about the project and the measures in place to minimize disruptions to businesses and commercial activities.
“We aim to provide updates on the road work, particularly for stakeholders along both the seaside and landside, from the Heritage Park roundabout to the Commonwealth Junction,” said Mr David V. Gange, Environment Health Service Manager of CCECC.
The Mendana Avenue upgrade is divided into eight segments, with the current meeting focused on segments one and two. Similar meetings will be held as the project progresses through segments three to eight.
Gange emphasized that the meeting also serves to collaboratively identify strategies for mitigating negative impacts on both motorists and businesses in the area.
He said the meeting aims to enhance the contractor’s understanding and appreciation of the stakeholders, consultants, MID, and the people of Solomon Islands.
Sally Pita, ADB Technical Advisor and Safeguards Environment and Social Management Officer at MID, explained that the consultation is part of the stakeholder engagement plan for the project.
“We hold these meetings before the physical construction begins to ensure that all stakeholders and the public are informed about what to expect. It is crucial that stakeholders are aware of the project details in advance,” she said.
Ms Pita said MID, as the client, has the responsibility of ensuring this communication, with support from the donor.
Photo credit- Samie Waikori
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