Financial Crime World

Roadwork Update: Progress Made on Betio-Bairiki Main Road

A significant milestone has been achieved on the Betio-Bairiki main road project, with the contractor making progress in addressing environmental concerns and completing works along the main roads.

Environmental Concerns Addressed

According to a recent report from the Environment Conservation Division (ECD), the contractor has taken steps to rectify issues raised during site inspections. These include:

  • Removal of construction waste at Mackenzie point
  • Cleanup of the roadside near Moroni High School
  • Resolution of runoff issues at the concrete batching depot in Teaoraereke

Additionally, the contractor has been advised to:

  • Build a ramp to lower stockpiles at Mackenzie point
  • Construct a separation bund to prevent runoff at the concrete batching depot
  • Address hazardous goods storage and spillage at the Met Office compound

Areas of Progress

The report highlights several areas of progress, including:

  • Completion of works under separable component #1
  • Preparation for commencement of works under separable component #2
  • Conducting public consultations in Betio and Bairiki
  • Providing follow-up reports to the Ministry of Public Works Utilities (MPWU) and Ministry of Education, Language, Art, Culture and Tourism/Environment Conservation Division (MELAD/ECD)

Minor Environmental Incidents

The report also notes minor environmental incidents, including:

  • Spill of hydraulic oil at the start of shift
  • Concerns raised by a village council representative about the disposal of “red-oxide” waste material

Project Progress and Future Plans

Despite these challenges, the contractor has been commended for its efforts to maintain clean and tidy areas where roadwork activities are undertaken. The report suggests that the contractor should take steps to better manage hazardous waste at the asphalt plant to avoid contaminated pads and recyclable waste being mixed with general waste.

The project is expected to continue making progress in the coming months, with plans to restore affected areas and address any remaining environmental concerns.

Photographs

Photo 1: Stockpiles to be lowered Photo 2: Stockpiles of leftover concrete and asphalt removed from Moroni high school Photo 3: Contaminated spillpads and recyclable waste Photo 4: Piles of solidified asphalt

Fumigation Certificates

The report includes appendices with site photographs and fumigation certificates, providing further evidence of the project’s progress.