Noro Roads Improvement under SIRAP2 reaches 85% completion, boosting connectivity and economic growth in Western Province.
The Noro Roads Improvement, a flagship investment under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), has reached 85 percent completion. Funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), the project is delivering major upgrades to improve connectivity, safety, and economic opportunities for communities in Noro and surrounding areas in Western Province.
Completed works include the sealing of about 5.3 km of key road networks with asphalt concrete, installation of concrete pavement on Port Exist Road, and construction of concrete-lined drainages and a new box culvert. Several of these activities have been carried out simultaneously across different road sections, with the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), increasing its workforce to meet project demands.
Ongoing works include road repairs along selected sections of the Noro–Munda Road to restore pavement integrity, installation of concrete pavement on Port Entry Road to support heavy traffic, and installation of curb and gutter on Mobil Road and Bonito Drive to improve drainage and road stability. All activities are being carried out under strict quality assurance and environmental safeguards, in line with project milestones and donor requirements.
Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, said, “The Noro Road Improvement is a testament to our commitment to improving infrastructure across the country. These upgrades not only enhance connectivity for local communities by making the roads more climate resilient and safer but also support economic growth and regional development. I commend all stakeholders, including our project team, the contractor, and the supervision consultant, for their dedication in ensuring quality delivery of this work.”
In addition to the Noro Roads Improvement, SIRAP2 is also supporting the upgrade of Santa Cruz Airfield, construction of four new bridges in Malaita, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, improvements to air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 km of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 km of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
SOURCE : SIRAP2
