SIRAP – Malaita Bridges to improve the safety and resilience of transport networks

 The construction of the three new bridges in Malaita are nearing completion and are set to improve the safety, speed, and ease of travel in the province for families and communities. The three new bridges are Bio1, Bio2 and Koa Bridges along the North Road in West Kwaraáe Constituency. These works are part of the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP) implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with support from the World Bank.

Reeves Envico, an international contractor, has been contracted by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) to undertake the works with supervision provided by a SMEC team in Auki.

Both Bio1 and Bio2 Bridges are almost complete, with the approach slab and the barrier works left for completion. For Koa Bridge, the pouring of the northern abutment was completed last week. Both Bio1 and Bio2 Bridges will be fully completed after easter, and the commencement of associated roadworks will follow. The southern abutment for Koa bridge is scheduled for completion before easter with the construction of the in-situ deck to follow shortly after.

The continuous bad weather has impacted progress; however, construction teams have worked to maximise available weather conditions.

Allan Lilia, Acting Permanent Secretary of MID said, “the replacement of these bridges will provide easier access to markets and health and education facilities, help Malaitans grow business and trade opportunities and lead to better connected communities.” Lilia thanked the World Bank for funding these bridges alongside the many other investments within SIRAP.

In addition to SIRAP, SIRAP2 will also be constructing four new bridges in Malaita this year for (Kolofe1 and Kolofe2 on North Road, and Su’u Harbor and Bira Bridges on South Road) and includes a range of additional road and aviation infrastructure upgrades. Supported by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, these works include upgrading roads in Noro, providing upgrades to the Honiara and Munda International Airports and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield, providing investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.

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