The Chinatown drainage improvement project, spanning from the Chinatown Bulkshop to Lawson Tama, is now halfway to completion.
This road infrastructure development is being delivered through the National Transport Fund by local contractor Homesafe Builders and the Civil Group as part of $60 million worth of upgrades to the national roads network supported by Australia.
The works include the installation of spoon drain at key sections along the 860-meter road stretch, concreting the drainage, and cleaning existing culverts to enhance water flow.
According to the Managing Director of Homesafe, Patteson Maeidua, 13 skilled laborers are actively working on this project.
The team comprises engineers, concrete mixers, and logistic personnel.
“Some of them are new graduates from rural training institutions, and this project helps sharpen their practical skills,” Mr. Maeidua said, adding that his staff hoped to venture into bigger-scale projects in the near future.
“I am proud of my team as they perform their duties according to expectation and the project scope.”
This project is expected to be completed by the end of next month.
Meanwhile, other Australian-funded improvements under the project in Honiara are also underway, including:
- Road widening and drainage improvements along Lekamboli Street from Vavaya Ridge Chief’s House to the back of the ITA Hardware Shop.
- Drainage enhancements below Holy Cross Cathedral lead to the Fijian Quarter outlet.
- Road sealing projects along Down Kola and FFA roads.
- Road repairs at Panatina Campus.
- Road repairs for Ngossi Valley road.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said he was delighted at the progress and quality of the 100 percent locally-delivered works.
“These upgrades are helping people to move around Honiara, reducing wear and tear on vehicles, and driving commerce and access to services.”
The Central Project Implementation Unit (CPIU) of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) continues to provide overall supervision and quality assurance for these contracts.
– MID
