BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Supervising Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Mike Qaqara, has applauded the upgrade of Honiara International Wharf at Honiara Port as a timely and important investment in the nation’s maritime infrastructure.
Work on the International Wharf Upgrade at Honiara Port has officially commenced, with contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) now undertaking the removal and stripping of the old concrete structures, MID said in a statement yesterday.
This critical initial phase marks the beginning of major rehabilitation works and lays the foundation for the full upgrade and modernisation of the wharf, MID said.
The project is designed to enhance the structural integrity, safety, and operational efficiency of the International Wharf, ensuring it can safely accommodate increased maritime traffic and larger vessels while meeting modern engineering and safety standards.
“The International Wharf is a national asset that supports trade, passenger movement, and the overall economy. The start of these upgrade works reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining safe, resilient, and efficient port infrastructure to meet current and future demands,” Mr Qaqara said in the statement.
“Through the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), and with the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), we are strengthening our transport network, which is crucial in facilitating international trade, boosting economic growth, and ensuring the efficient movement of goods,” Qaqara said.
MID said that it is anticipated to be completed within two years and is designed to fulfil its purpose over the next 50 years.
According to MID, these upgrades form part of the broader infrastructure investment under LMCP, a flagship initiative led by the Solomon Islands Government and the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) with financial and technical support from the ADB.
The maritime component of LMCP also encompasses the construction of two new provincial wharves at Kirakira Port in Makira/Ulawa Province and Ahanga in Rennell Bellona Province.
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