BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project Phase Two (SIRAP2) has been given the green light to upgrade roads in Gizo, marking a major step forward in improving another road infrastructure in Western Province.
Premier Billy Veo confirmed the development in an exclusive interview with Island Sun yesterday.
He said consultations are currently underway between the Western Provincial Government and SIRAP2 officials.
Veo said the project is expected to upgrade more than 20 kilometres of road within Gizo town, with priority to be given to the seaside road stretching from the eastern to the western end of the town.
“Priority will be given to the seaside road from east to western end of the town,” he said.
In addition to road improvements, Veo announced that plans are also in motion to address Gizo’s long-standing water supply challenges.
He said Gizo has been identified as one of the key development areas under the government’s 50th Anniversary development plan, with a focus on establishing a reliable and sustainable water system.
“We are looking at utilising this proposal to develop proper water supply for Gizo town,” Veo said.
He said drilling for boreholes is expected to commence later this month to identify suitable water sources. The plan involves pumping water into storage tanks before distributing it across the town.
Veo said access to clean and reliable water remains a persistent issue for Gizo residents and stressed that his government is working closely with Solomon Water to accelerate progress.
“Our people have faced this challenge for a long time, and we are putting pressure on Solomon Water to fast-track this development,” he added.
The dual projects are expected to significantly enhance living conditions and support economic growth in Gizo, one of the country’s key provincial centres.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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