Auki Road Rehabilitation Progresses Despite Delays, Nearing Asphalting Phase

Despite encountering delays due to utility line relocations and challenging weather conditions, the China-Aid Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project remains on track and is progressing rapidly towards the asphalting phase.

The contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), is currently focused on installing heavy-duty, concrete-lined drainage systems along the 9.2 km road network. These reinforced drainage channels will manage surface runoff and safeguard Auki’s town centre and residential areas from erosion.

The project encompasses the extensive rehabilitation of the 3.796-kilometer main road from Kilu’ufi Hospital to Kwaibala Bridge, as well as the upgrade of 16 feeder roads (5.4 km) across this fast-growing urban township. The contractor has been working hand-in-hand since past months with the ministry’s Transport Infrastructure Management Services Division, the Malaita Provincial Government and local utility service providers—Solomon Power, Solomon Water and Solomon Telekom—to facilitate a seamless transition and connectivity during the relocation of poles and pipeline systems.

At this stage, CCECC is preparing for the asphalt sealing process. Once completed, Auki will benefit from a durable 50mm-thick asphalt pavement designed to last between 10 and 20 years, significantly enhancing local transportation and connectivity for Malaita’s township.

More than 230 Malaitans from nearby communities are employed under this project, working alongside Chinese technical experts and gaining valuable skills in construction.

Recently, an expert panel conducted a midterm inspection, including visual assessments and quality measurements of all completed works—culverts, drainage systems, retaining walls, embankments, and subbase courses. The panel team also reviews environmental management and safety protocols, culminating in an Excellent rating for the project since its commencement early last year.

This project augments the government’s National Transport Infrastructure Plan 2017-2035 and serves as a testament of the People’s Republic of China’s support to Solomon Islands infrastructure development, further cementing the friendship.

CCECC is currently focused on installing heavy-duty, concrete-lined drainage systems along the 9.2 km road network.

More than 230 Malaitans from nearby communities are employed under this project, working alongside Chinese technical experts and gaining valuable skills in construction.

This project augments the government’s National Transport Infrastructure Plan 2017-2035.

The contractor has been working hand-in-hand since past months with key stakeholders to facilitate a seamless transition and connectivity during the relocation of poles and pipeline systems.

Once completed, Auki will benefit from a durable 50mm-thick asphalt pavement designed to last between 10 and 20 years, significantly enhancing local transportation and connectivity for Malaita’s township.

Once completed, Auki will benefit from a durable 50mm-thick asphalt pavement designed to last between 10 and 20 years, significantly enhancing local transportation and connectivity for Malaita’s township.

The panel team also reviews environmental management and safety protocols, culminating in an Excellent rating for the project since its commencement early last year.

Recently, an expert panel conducted a midterm inspection, including visual assessments and quality measurements of all completed works—culverts, drainage systems, retaining walls, embankments, and subbase courses.

These reinforced drainage channels will manage surface runoff and safeguard Auki’s town centre and residential areas from erosion.

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