Ministry of Infrastructure Development condemns roadside littering and betel nut stains, urging public cooperation to protect Honiara’s road infrastructure.
The Transport Infrastructure Management Services Division (TIMSD) at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) strongly condemns the ongoing practice of spitting red betel nut stains on road line markings and median fences and discarding rubbish onto main roads.
TIMSD stated, “Such practices mar the city’s infrastructure and pose safety and environmental risks.”
Recent observations show that, despite efforts to keep our streets clean, rubbish such as plastics and other debris is quickly discarded onto the roads, undermining the work of contracted service providers.
TIMSD cited the street and drainage work conducted by a contractor along the East Honiara Highway over the weekend. However, by Monday and yesterday, rubbish had already reappeared, underscoring the need for collective responsibility in maintaining the city’s urban environment.
TIMSD emphasizes the importance of proper waste disposal and urges all road users to refrain from throwing rubbish from vehicles onto the roads.
“Discarded waste can clog roadside drainage inlets, leading to flooding during heavy rains—a hazard that continues to affect our main highway,” the statement said.
TIMSD will also engage a local contractor to repaint and restore road line markings to improve traffic safety.
“We kindly request all vehicle drivers and passengers to avoid spitting betel nut on these markings.
“Clear, visible lane lines are crucial for delineating traffic lanes and ensuring safe travel for everyone,” the statement added.
Once the current Land and Maritime Connectivity Project is completed—covering White River-Honiara City Council and Henderson Court-Mberande—it will enhance transportation infrastructure in the city, facilitating smoother and safer travel for commuters and enabling businesses to thrive.
“We acknowledge the ongoing challenges in maintaining the city’s drainage system, which have been exacerbated by continuous heavy rainfall.
“Our team is actively working with stakeholders and business owners who have blocked easements for drainage clean-ups and those who have encroached onto the main road, especially along the East Honiara stretch.”
In the meantime, two local contractors are responsible for road drainage maintenance and clean-up from Henderson Court to the Honiara City Council junction.
Another contractor is responsible for the city’s overall street cleaning and desilting using an advanced street sweeper truck equipped with brush and vacuum systems.
SOURCE: MID PRESS
