Construction works under the Choiseul Bay Township Project (CBTP) is progressing steadily, with significant developments now underway at Lot 9 along the Tarekukure road network.
A statement from Solomon Island Ministry of Rural Development stated that works at Lot 9 include road alignments, installation of culverts, drainage systems, and the construction of bridge structures.
“Once completed, the road network will provide vital connectivity to key future development sites, including a proposed new hospital, light industrial zones, business centres, and a designated cemetery area,” the statement said.
Local contractor Central Islands Civil Construction Ltd (CICC) has commenced full-scale road clearing and grubbing operations, marking another milestone in the ambitious relocation of Taro town to the mainland.
The project was funded by the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) in collaboration with the Choiseul Provincial Government, is regarded as the backbone infrastructure for the future township.
Project Manager Isaac Lekelalu estimates that clearance works will take approximately seven months to complete, subject to weather conditions and site accessibility.
The statement highlighted that technical oversight and engineering guidance are being provided by the Ministry’s Transport Infrastructure team based in Gizo, ensuring compliance with national infrastructure standards.
The CBTP is a flagship national initiative of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) that represents a historic milestone in the planned relocation of Taro town from its current island location to the mainland.
Acknowledgement was also extended to the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for its ongoing role in facilitating community participation and coordinating activities at the grass roots level.
With groundwork advancing steadily and partnerships strengthening, the Choiseul Bay Township Project remains on course toward delivering a resilient and future-ready township for the people of Choiseul province
By GEHAZI SEKO
Solomon Star Stringer
