SIRAP2 completes Bira Bridge foundations in Malaita, advancing key infrastructure for safer, climate-resilient transport.
The Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) has completed the pile foundations for the Bira Bridge in West Kwaio, Malaita Province. This achievement marks a key milestone in the broader Malaita Bridges Improvement Project, which is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).
The construction is being undertaken by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, using modular bridge technology designed for improved flood resilience and climate adaptability. Construction supervision is provided by Egis Asia Company Limited.
Pile foundations are essential for ensuring bridge stability. With this phase completed, the project will now proceed to the installation of pile caps, which connect the piles to the bridge deck and help distribute structural loads effectively.
“The construction of new bridges is a key part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve transport connectivity, boost economic opportunities, and enhance disaster resilience across Malaita Province,” stated Allan Lilia, Permanent Secretary of MID.
“Improved infrastructure not only supports the daily movement of goods and people but also strengthens access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and markets,” he added.
Following the completion of works at Bira Bridge, the contractor is progressing with piling operations for the Su’u Harbour Bridge. Mobilisation of equipment and materials for the Kolofe1 and Kolofe2 Bridges in North Malaita is scheduled to begin in early May 2025. These projects form part of the broader Malaita Bridges Improvement under SIRAP2, which aims to upgrade and reinforce critical transport links throughout the province.
SIRAP2 continues to play a key role in improving transport infrastructure, strengthening community connections, and promoting economic development across the Solomon Islands.
Steady progress on the Malaita Bridges Improvement highlights the Government’s commitment to building a more resilient, connected, and prosperous nation. Upon completion, the bridges will offer safer, more reliable access for communities, businesses, and travellers in Malaita Province.
In addition to the Malaita bridges, SIRAP2 is also supporting the construction of Noro Roads, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports, improvements to Santa Cruz Airfield in Temotu Province and Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
SOURCE: SIRAP2
