The Noro Roads Improvement, a flagship investment under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), continues to make strong progress, with the work now 85 percent complete.
Funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), the work is delivering significant upgrades that will enhance connectivity, safety, and economic opportunities for communities in Noro and surrounding areas in Western Province.
Major works that have been completed include the sealing of about 5.3 km of key road networks with asphalt concrete, installation of concrete pavement on Port Exist Road, and construction of concrete-lined drainages and a new box culvert.
Some of these activities have been carried out simultaneously across multiple road sections, with the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), expanding its workforce to meet the increased scope of work.
Ongoing works include road repairs at selected locations of the Noro–Munda Road to restore pavement integrity, installation of concrete pavement on Port Entry Road to support high-traffic durability, and installation of curb and gutter on Mobil Road and Bonito Drive to improve drainage and edge stability.
All activities are being delivered under strict quality assurance and environmental safeguards, aligned with project milestones and donor expectations.
Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, said, “The Noro Road Improvement is a testament to our commitment to improving infrastructure across the country.
”These upgrades not only enhance connectivity for local communities by making the roads more climate resilient and safer but also support economic growth and regional development.
“I commend all stakeholders, including our project team, the contractor, and the supervision consultant, for their dedication in ensuring quality delivery of this work.”
In addition to the Noro Roads Improvement, SIRAP2 is also supporting the upgrade of Santa Cruz Airfield, construction of four new bridges in Malaita, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 km of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 km of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
– SIRAP
