Ministry of Infrastructure Development Safeguards unit, in collaboration with the Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP 2) Support Team, has kicked off public consultations at communities located along the East Malaita road network.
This is in preparation for the roll-out of SIRAP 2 additional financing that incorporates climate-resilient infrastructure for the section from Baratalo to Atori (21 km).
This section will be upgraded by regravelling of the pavement, concreting of steep sections where necessary and improving the drainage system to withstand heavy rainfall eroding the road foundation as experienced in recent years brought about by climate change.
MID chief safeguards officer Roxsley Basil said their joint team started consultations last week at Atori, Tabawao, and Gwaifai.
They continue throughout this week at Kwaiafa, Foufoumela, Fera’abu, Anomasu and Fabarataloa communities.
“We share with the villagers why these road infrastructure upgrades matter, the possible social and environmental considerations, community involvement, land and compensation procedures, grievance redress mechanisms and other topics.
“Feedback from those attending our meetings has shown overwhelming support and their wish to see more improvement to roads that have connected them to Auki town and the outside world,” Mr Basil said.
He added they also conducted an environmental assessment for SIRAP 2’s West Kwara’ae road section from Gwaunaru’u Airport junction to Kwaisuliniu Market.
This 12 km road stretch is slated for tar sealing that will benefit communities of eight constituencies, improving road safety, connectivity to services and boosting local economic activities.
Concurrently, SIRAP 2’s ongoing construction is progressing well for the Kolofe 1 and 2 bridges along the North Malaita road and the Su’u Harbour and Bira bridges along the West Kwaio/South Road.
SIRAP 2 is collaboratively funded by the World Bank and the Solomon Islands Government.
The government, through the 2017-2036 National Transport Plan (NTF) with development partners, is committed to enhancing road infrastructure development projects in all provinces.
– MID Press
