![Chovohio [left] and Charivunga [right] confluence, to create a dam for sediment control](https://www.tavulinews.com.sb/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Add-a-heading-43-360x180.png)
New fire station for Honiara Airport through funding under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), a project by Communication and Aviation Ministry.
Honiara International Airport is gearing up to enhance its safety and emergency response capabilities with the construction of a state-of-the-art rescue and fire service station, expected to commence operations in early 2024. This critical infrastructure upgrade is being made possible through funding provided under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), a project spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) in collaboration with support from the World Bank.
The upcoming airport safety services station is set to be outfitted with cutting-edge equipment designed to effectively handle any fire-related incidents or emergencies that may arise within the airport’s premises. Notably, the station will incorporate an advanced alarm system, a crucial component in mitigating the impact of both aircraft and structural fires. This proactive measure is aimed at bolstering the safety of passengers and aviation personnel while minimizing potential losses in such situations. In light of this development, Moses Virivolomo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, extended his gratitude to the World Bank for their invaluable financial support toward the realization of this essential project.
The responsibility of crafting the station’s detailed designs and comprehensive plans has been entrusted to Egis Asia Company Limited. Once these plans are finalized, the project will proceed to the tendering phase, followed by the actual construction of the fire service station. The construction timeline is projected to culminate in early 2025, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the safety and preparedness of Honiara International Airport.
Additionally, as part of the broader scope of SIRAP2, several other infrastructure developments are in progress. These include the construction of four new bridges, namely Kolofe1, Kolofe2, Su’u Harbour, and Bira, all situated in Malaita. Road upgrades in Noro, improvements to Honiara and Munda Airports, and enhancements at Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield are also underway. Furthermore, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, along with support for regional airport maintenance, are integral components of the comprehensive SIRAP2 initiative.
Source: SIRAP
