The Noro Water Supply Upgrade Project in Western Province was officially commissioned last Thursday, according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The new plant will extend water services to households, schools and businesses in the town. The project is part of the Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project, which receives support from ADB, the European Union, the Global Environment Facility, the World Bank and the Government of Solomon Islands. ADB Country Director Anthony Gill addressed the ceremony, noting that Noro is one of the country’s most important economic centres. He said the bank remains committed to providing safe and reliable water services to all communities and highlighted the commissioning as evidence that “communities in provincial centres are not left behind in national development efforts.” Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Derrick Manu’ari delivered the keynote address. He pledged that the government would continue to strengthen water‑resource management and build essential infrastructure outside Honiara. Manu’ari described the project as “a lasting symbol of what can be achieved through genuine partnership, community ownership, responsible stewardship and shared prosperity.” Noro Town Council Clerk Gavin Totu welcomed the new plant, saying it would improve water supply, health outcomes, business operations and overall growth in the township. Totu thanked the partners involved and urged residents and businesses to care for the facility. Solomon Water will operate and maintain the system. The Noro upgrade is part of a broader water‑security initiative that also includes the capital. Three reservoirs—Titinge, Tasahe and Panatina—were commissioned last Tuesday, along with work on trunk mains, which will enhance service for more than 105,000 residents in Honiara.
Article source: Solomon Times Online | Image credit: Solomon Times Online