THE China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) will upgrade the Auki Road network in Malaita Province with asphalt concrete mix and not tar.
Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua confirmed this in his 2025/2026 Budget Speech in the Malaita Provincial Assembly in Auki on Monday.
He said asphalt concrete is more resistant to water infiltration and therefore offers high quality road surface that is durable and ensures a smoother, comfortable and safe vehicle travel.
Premier Asilaua said the project will connect all residential areas within the township.
CCECC has already established its site, including office construction, road concrete work and power installations.
Premier Asilaua said the asphalt concrete road works will begin in April, once the site office construction is completed.
He also assured that ongoing work carried out by CCECC will not disrupt the facilities at Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School.
The premier said water and power distribution at the school will remain unaffected.
“Road access to the school has been progressively backfilled now that gravel is available,” he said.
Premier Asilaua reminded the Malaita Provincial Assembly members of their role in supporting efforts by his government to ensure the successful implementation of the Auki Asphalt Concrete Road Rehabilitation Project.
He said it is the Malaita Provincial Government’s responsibility to ensure a safe working environment for both the foreign contractor’s staff and local employees and also ensure the safety of the machinery and equipment involved in the project.
“The safety and security of the staff, machinery and equipment are crucial for the smooth progress of the project, which is scheduled to be completed within 22 months,” Premier Asilaua said.
The premier said providing security personnel, including police officers for patrols, is a standard procedure.
“The Malaita Provincial Government will allocate resources for security officers as part of its budget,” he added.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
