Community Consultation along Noro Roads Underway 

The upgrading of Noro Road is set to begin soon with community consultation currently underway. The upgrading of Noro Roads is supported by the World Bank under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) and is being implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).

A team consisting of MID, the Project Support Team, and the contractor and supervision consultant are currently in Noro and undertaking community consultation ahead of the upgrade works. A critical part of the community consultation is to provide information on the works including introducing the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), as well as to establish the Community Advisory Committee (CAC).

As part of introducing CCECC, the consultations provide a forum to address concerns from the community or provide clarifications and assurances regarding the contractor’s capabilities and commitment to quality and safety standards. It will also highlight the benefits of engaging the contractor for the road rehabilitation work, such as their expertise, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to project timelines.

The establishment of the CAC will foster meaningful engagement with the local community affected by the road project. The CAC provides a platform for community members to voice their concerns, provide input, and participate in decision-making processes related to the project. Overall, the establishment of a CAC on a road project helps to promote collaboration, transparency, and community participation, ultimately leading to more successful and sustainable project outcomes.

Lastly, the consultation process will also identify specific stakeholders such as government agencies, local communities, businesses, and any other relevant parties.

Allan Lilia, Acting Permanent Secretary of MID, said, “The improvement works will focus on improving road safety as well as climate resilience through pothole repairs, raising the road, surface improvements and enhanced drainage. These roads will benefit over 7,300 people living in Noro and Munda wards. Communities in the areas can enjoy safer and more reliable access to markets and services, with better roads resulting in reduced travel times and vehicle operating costs. These upgrades will improve quality of life, income opportunities, and access to healthcare, education, and markets for the people of Western Province,” he further added.

In addition to the Noro Road improvements, SIRAP2 is also constructing four new bridges in Malaita (Kolofe1, Kolofe2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira Bridges), providing upgrades to Honiara and Munda International Airports and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield, investing in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.

End//