The Saliadrau bridge project is a step closer to realization following the release of tender notices for its construction last week. For more than 20 years, the local inhabitants of Saliadrau in Namosi have endured difficult travel conditions, including traversing harsh landscapes and navigating rivers to reach main roads and educational institutions.
According to Laisenia Tui, the public administrator of the Namosi Provincial Council, during an interview with this publication, the project should get underway soon. “A tender for the crossing to Saliadrau Village was announced in the open market,” Tui shared. He added that prospective companies are scheduled to inspect the location next week.
The project has an estimated budget of $5 million which would be provided by the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development, as stated by Isoa Talemaibua, the Permanent Secretary of this department. Completion is anticipated within the next fiscal year.
In the meantime, it has been revealed that boats would be made available to aid Waivaka villagers in crossing the river. Tui stated that they are in the process of hiring engineers and surveyors for initial assessment works, following which a qualified company would be contracted for the bridge’s construction.
Earlier news sources confirmed that the Japanese Government had granted over $200,000 in aid specifically for the Saliadrau bridge’s construction. In comparison, the cost of building the Waivaka bridge, which was inaugurated in 2015, totaled around $320,000.