BY NED GAGAHE
The days of boat travelers from Isabel Province braving perilous journeys without reliable communication are over.
Thanks to the newly implemented Solomon Islands National Broadband Infrastructure Project (SINBIP), a joint project between the Solomon Islands and China, boat operators and passengers can now travel with peace of mind, knowing they can call for help in case of emergencies at sea.
SINBIP is a telecommunications project that involves building towers to improve internet connectivity in the country.
The SINBIP Tower, which was officially launched recently at Tathi, Central Islands Province marks a significant improvement in safety and communication for boat travelers.
Before its implementation, residents and visitors in the Isabel to Honiara route, passing through Gella, often faced unreliable or no mobile coverage, putting them at risk during their travels.
Now, with the SINBIP Tower in place, boat operators are able to stay in touch with clients and receive urgent calls of confirmation for travel plans.
Brian Mickley, a boat operator from Sepi, Isabel Province, expressed his excitement about the tower’s impact on his business.
“We are very happy to have the tower connected. It makes it much easier for us to receive calls of confirmation from clients who want to use our boats for travel,” Mickley said.
The tower’s opening has eliminated communication issues that once hampered transportation and business operations, enhancing both safety and convenience for all involved.
Boat transportation, an essential service for many residents and visitors in the area, can now operate with greater reliability, knowing that assistance can be reached immediately in case of disaster or emergency.
The introduction of the SINBIP Tower is being hailed as a game-changer for the region, not only improving safety but also contributing to the local economy by facilitating smoother business operations.
“We are excited to see more positive impacts from this project and how it will continue to improve the lives of Solomon Islanders,” said a local government spokesperson.
“With improved connectivity and communication, boat travel in the Solomon Islands has entered a new era of safety, reliability, and convenience.” He said.
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