The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has announced progress in its plans to reintroduce traffic lights, also known as pedestrian and signage, on main crossing roads for Honiara City.
This effort aims to enhance road safety, improve traffic flow, and facilitate a more organised transportation system within the capital, a statement by MID yesterday [March 31] said.
The Transport Infrastructure Management Service Division (TIMSD) has been actively engaged in discussions with potential suppliers and contractors.
These talks have focused on sourcing high-quality solar-powered traffic lights, one that suits our condition, the MID statement said.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of all road users in Honiara.
“The reintroduction of traffic lights and signage is a crucial step towards achieving better traffic management and reducing congestion in crucial points in our city,” MID said.
Honiara had traffic lights in the 1980s, but they have not been operational since then due to a variety of factors.
MID is optimistic that the new road technology system will be operational by the third quarter of this year.
Additionally, a key objective of the ongoing Japan International Cooperation Agency-funded “Capacity Improvement of Urban Transport Management in Honiara” project is to develop standards for road traffic signs.
These infrastructural upgrades underscore the government’s commitment to modernising Honiara’s infrastructure and enhancing safety for road users, especially as road upgrade projects are concurrently underway.
