Work on four vital bridges in Malaita Province is progressing steadily under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), supported by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).
These strategic infrastructure investments aim to enhance transport connectivity and bolster climate resilience across Malaita.
The new Su’u Harbour, Bira, Kolofe1, and Kolofe2 Bridges will utilize the innovative InQuik modular bridge system, an advanced solution designed for rapid and resilient bridge construction. The supplier has reported significant progress in fabricating all modular bridge components for the four bridges, reflecting the broader effort to reinforce the durability and reliability of the Solomon Islands’ transport network.
The modular system enables faster construction by reducing on-site time and workforce requirements, improving safety, and offering a longer design life, for example, 100 years for key structure elements. Components are being manufactured in a quality-controlled factory in Australia before shipment to Solomon Islands where they can be rapidly assembled and completed.
Demonstrating system versatility, their engineering team has adapted the components for Su’u Harbour and Bira Bridges to integrate with conventionally constructed abutments being built locally. This showcases the system’s flexibility in diverse construction settings.
All components are being produced to meet stringent seismic standards, supported by rigorous quality control throughout the fabrication process.
Richard Carson, General Manager of InQuik Australia, reaffirmed their commitment: “Our team is proud to deliver safe and reliable infrastructure that will serve communities for generations.”
Shipping of modular bridge components from Brisbane to Honiara is scheduled for arrival on September 24, 2025 for Su’u Harbour and Bira Bridges on South Road, and mid November 2025 for Kolofe1 and Kolofe2 Bridges on North Road.
Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, stated; “The progress we are seeing on the Malaita bridges reflects strong collaboration, innovation, and the dedication of all stakeholders. These modular bridges are not just infrastructure – they are resilient solutions that connect communities, support livelihoods, and strengthen our ability to adapt to climate change.”
In addition to Malaita bridges, SIRAP2 is also working on construction of Noro Roads, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, air navigation equipment in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, rehabilitation of 21 km of the East Road from Baratolo to Atori, and sealing of 12 km of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction to Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
– SIRAP
