Contract awarded to CCECC for crucial bridge replacements under World Bank-funded SIRAP2, improving transportation and connectivity
The tendering process for the Malaita Bridges Improvement (Kolofe1 and Kolofe2 Bridges on North Road, and Su’u Harbor and Bira Bridges on South Road) has concluded, and the successful bidder is expected to mobilize upon meeting the contract requirements. These projects are supported by the World Bank under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) and are implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).
The Letter of Acceptance and Contract Agreement were issued to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) on July 2, 2024, with a kick-off meeting held on July 11, 2024, to introduce the contractor to the SIRAP2 Project Support Team and the Supervising Consultant. The Contract Award Notice was issued on July 10, 2024.
As part of the contract conditions, the contractor must submit its Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form within eight working days and provide Performance Security and Environmental and Social Performance Security within 28 working days after the issuance of the Letter of Acceptance. Additionally, the Contractor’s Environmental and Social Management Plan must be submitted for review and approval by MID and the World Bank before mobilization and the commencement of works. The Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form was signed and submitted on July 7, 2024.
The four bridges are urgently needed as the existing Kolofe1, Kolofe2, and Su’u Harbor Bridges have deteriorated, and the old Bira Bridge was washed away, making it impossible for vehicles and pedestrians to cross the stream during floods and high tides.
Permanent Secretary of MID Allan Lilia stated that the bridges will facilitate smoother movement of people and goods, reducing flood-related disruptions and travel time. They will also connect previously isolated areas, improving accessibility and regional integration. The bridges are expected to open new opportunities for economic growth by connecting markets, industries, and businesses, thereby stimulating trade and commerce. He further emphasized that investments in modernizing the bridges will improve the safety and climate resilience of the road network, facilitate transportation, enhance accessibility, connect communities, and contribute to environmental sustainability and cultural heritage.
In addition to the four bridges in Malaita, SIRAP2 is also constructing Noro Roads, upgrading Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz Airfield, investing in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.
Source: SIRAP