The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has outlined immediate plans for the improvement and expansion of bypass roads to ease traffic congestion as ongoing road works continue along the West Honiara highway of the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project.
To enhance traffic flow, two key bypass routes are set to be upgraded: Hibiscus Avenue (back road from Townground-Mbokona stream-Pt. Cruz hot bread) and the road passing the Vavaya Ridge-Chiefs House-ITA Hardware shop also known as Lekaboli street.
Upon completion, these improved roads will serve as alternative routes, effectively connecting traffic to Chinatown and providing access to areas heading east.
“The aim is to reduce congestion, particularly as the road upgrade works will continue along the main Town Ground roundabout to the Central Market commencing in coming months.
“Upgrading these bypass roads is essential in addressing the immediate challenge of traffic congestion within the Honiara central business district as witnessed to facilitate smoother traffic flow while the main highway undergoes road upgrades,” MID stated.
In addition to these immediate plans, MID is also exploring a long-term initiative to establish a back road for Honiara city.
It will require a multi-sectoral approach, involving collaboration among various stakeholders, including the the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, Guadalcanal Province, the government legal team, resource owners, local communities, and other key partners. However, this plan may take time to realize since it will need a wider consultation.
As Honiara’s population continues to grow, the demand for additional roads and transportation solutions has become increasingly apparent.
“We are dedicated to implementing strategies that enhance the city’s transportation system like the Japan International Cooperation Agency- funded Honiara urban transportation management project which is in consultation stage,” the statement said.
Photo caption: Drone shot of Lekaboli street with yellow lines indicating one of the bypass roads at Vavaya Ridge-Chiefs House-ITA Hardware shop set for upgrading and expansion to ease traffic congestion as ongoing road works continue along the West Honiara highway of the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project. Photo credit: CPIU/MID.
