Upgrading of Auki-Dala Bridges

The upgrade of the Auki-Dala bridges took place in Malaita, which has the largest road network outside Guadalcanal. Many of Malaita’s main roads are in poor condition and below national standards while carrying the highest traffic volumes and linking more than half of the island’s wards – around 70% of its population. The project formed part of the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP) and targeted priority roads identified in the National Transport Plan (2017–2036) and Medium-Term Transport Action Plan (2017–2021), with the aim of improving safety, access and climate resilience. Works included maintenance of the main road network, targeted improvements to address flooding and drainage issues, construction of three new bridges, delivery of the Fiu Bridge and resealing of approximately 17 km along the Auki–north of Bina corridor. Awarded in November 2021 and completed in September 2024, the project significantly improved the reliability of Malaita’s core road network and strengthened connections between communities, markets and essential services while enhancing safety, access and climate resilience.