The Western Provincial Government (WPG) has pledged to take swift action on road maintenance and major infrastructure improvements in Gizo, following growing public outcry over the deteriorating state of roads in the provincial capital.
Premier Billy Veo made the assurance during his address to the Western Provincial Assembly meeting in Gizo on Monday, acknowledging the wave of criticism directed at his administration while insisting that his government “has not been idle.”
“Mr. Speaker Sir, a lot has been said about the state of the Gizo roads and the perceived failure by the Executive Government and the administration in addressing the roads,” Premier Veo said.
“So much so that the government is copping a lot of negative comments by many of our keyboard warriors on social media, print media and other platforms.”
The Premier outlined several key projects set to roll out soon, including the long-awaited Gizo China Town road sealing and upgrades to critical feeder roads across the town.
According to Premier Veo, the sealing of the Gizo China Town road is scheduled to commence early next year, with groundwork expected to begin in the latter half of 2025.
“This follows a recent meeting and the completion of scoping and geo-technical analyses by the CAUSE II Project Manager two weeks ago,” he said.
He also confirmed that Gizo has qualified in the recent PCDF assessment, unlocking a total of SBD$1.5 million for the Kona Shop-to-Tisi road and other feeder roads within the township.
He added that the Provincial Fiscal Grant Coordinating Committee (PFGCC) will meet on the 9th and 10th of October, followed by the Joint Oversight Committee on the 14th.
The government expects to receive its PCDF allocation after these meetings, with procurement and construction expected to begin soon afterward.
Premier Veo said while frustrations from the public are justified, it is important to understand the legal and administrative processes that govern provincial responsibilities.
“We do understand where they are coming from, but it really pays to actually understand how our provincial government system works and the delineated roles and responsibilities as prescribed under the Provincial Government Act 1997,” he explained.
He appealed for public patience and understanding as the government works to address the issue through the proper channels.
“We can talk and talk all day till the cow comes home, but these things take a lot of time when we operate in bureaucracies,” Premier Veo concluded.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
