MID Safeguards Team launches awareness drive in West Honiara to clear road encroachments and enhance safety
The Safeguards Team of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) launched a community awareness programme last week as part of the ongoing specific and routine road maintenance project in West Honiara. The initiative aims to engage residents living along key maintenance routes to support a smooth implementation process and enhance safety during construction activities.
To date, the team has visited several areas, including Mbokona, Vasekana, Tasahe Drive, Wind Valley, and Namoruka. During these visits, community members were informed about the importance of relocating structures that encroach upon road corridors, also known as rights-of-way.
Sections of feeder roads and drainage systems in Honiara have become obstructed by unauthorised encroachments, such as betel nut stalls, fences, house extensions, and other structures. These encroachments present challenges for both government officials and construction crews working to carry out essential maintenance and expansion works.
Road reserves are designated zones intended for future infrastructure development. They play a vital role in accommodating public utilities such as bus stops, electricity lines, water and sewage systems, and communication infrastructure. These provisions are essential for improving transportation efficiency and overall connectivity within Honiara.
Roxsley Basil, Chief Officer of the MID Safeguards Team, underscored the importance of adhering to road safety regulations and supporting the ongoing road expansion project.
“Building structures within designated road corridors poses significant risks to residents’ property,” Mr Basil noted.
“Careless driving could result in property damage or, in tragic cases, loss of life.”
The Safeguards Team is also working closely with owners of derelict vehicles parked along construction routes. These vehicles hinder the progress of the project and obstruct roadworks.
Vehicle owners are being strongly urged to remove abandoned cars promptly to avoid project delays and to provide construction teams with the necessary space to operate safely and efficiently. The removal of these obstructions is viewed as essential to the improvement of Honiara’s transport infrastructure.
“We appreciate the cooperation of the community during this much-needed roadworks, and we encourage open communication between residents and our team to address any concerns or questions that may arise,” Mr Basil stated.
The unsealed roads in West Honiara have been divided into four lots, where contractors are currently on-site carrying out initial work. These activities include patrol grading, vegetation clearance, and drainage improvements.
SOURCE: MID PRESS RELEASE
