First of five new bus shelters for Honiara open
Honiara City residents can now enjoy relief from the sun and rain while waiting for public transportation. Mayor Eddie Siapu has officially opened the first of five new Australian-funded bus shelters.
The new shelters, located along Mendana and Kukum highways, are designed to provide accessible and comfortable waiting areas for thousands of daily commuters who rely on Honiara's busy PMV network.
Mayor Siapu expressed his excitement about Australia's Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program's contribution to the project. He highlighted the importance of reliable public transport and praised the shelters' accessibility features, which cater to people with disabilities.
“Reliable, accessible, and comfortable public transport is vital, and it enables the residents of Honiara to move around comfortably from the rain and heat of the sun,” Mayor Siapu said.
“I also commend the design of these bus shelters, which cater to our people with disabilities. I encourage the residents of Honiara to take ownership of these bus shelters and look after them, for they are gifts given to us by the people of Australia.”
The SBD6.7 million project is a collaborative effort between Honiara City Council, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, and Australia's Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program.
Australia’s Acting Deputy High Commissioner Craig Gillies said a good public transport service was vital to increasing economic development through improved productivity by moving people safely, comfortably, and efficiently between home, school, market, work, and back again.
“Australia supported the bus shelter initiative by prioritizing the use of local designers, local suppliers, and local construction companies at every step. I’m proud to say that these shelters are fully designed, constructed, and delivered by Solomon Islanders, for Solomon Islanders.” Mr Gillies said.
Four more shelters will be completed at key locations, such as China Town, Lawson Tama, the National Referral Hospital, and Kukum Hot Bread, this month.
The project prioritizes inclusivity, with features like aligned concrete slabs and designated waiting areas ensuring accessibility for wheelchair users.
Mr. Watson Mali from the Disabled Peoples' Association of Solomon Islands commended the initiative, highlighting its significance in promoting equal participation in social and economic activities.
“Building inclusive infrastructure for all means everyone has the same opportunity to participate in the social and economic development of Solomon Islands – and Australia is proud to support this vision,” he said.
The new shelters are strategically placed at the end of bus bays to encourage proper parking and reduce traffic congestion.
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