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By Amin Kef (Ranger)
PAVI FORT – AL ASSOCIATES (SL) LTD, a prominent Sierra Leonean civil engineering and construction firm, is approaching the completion of a significant development project in Lumley. The project includes the construction of six transportation terminals and a modern market center, forming a key part of the broader initiative to enhance Freetown’s transportation and commercial infrastructure. This development aims to boost the city’s functionality and appeal.
With over 25 years of experience in large-scale development projects, Pavi Fort has established a strong reputation for delivering high-quality construction work within tight deadlines. The company is known for its commitment to quality, health, safety and environmental standards and it has assured the Government of its dedication to timely and high-standard execution.
Pavi Fort has consistently impressed with its ability to meet international standards in road and bridge construction. The company’s utilization of local content has not only led to high-quality outputs but has also created numerous jobs, contributed to development programs through its financial obligations and supported corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Under the astute leadership of Alimu Sanu Barrie, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Pavi Fort has played a pivotal role in fulfilling one of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s manifesto promises—improving road networks across the country. The company’s efforts have garnered commendation from funding agencies and widespread admiration from the public.
The current SLPP Government, led by President Bio, has made significant strides in development, including securing World Bank funding for the Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP). This project has enhanced public transportation, addressed climate resilience, improved road safety and strengthened institutional capacity in the transport sector.
Pavi Fort was awarded the contract for the IRUMP project in three key areas: Kissy Ferry Junction, Congo Cross and Lumley. The project involved comprehensive corridor improvements, including traffic management measures, intersection enhancements, coordinated traffic lights, improved sidewalks and better drainage.
The company successfully executed its latest activities under the World Bank-funded IRUMP, continuing its tradition of excellence in infrastructure development.
The extensive infrastructure initiative led by Pavi Fort has marked significant progress with the successful completion of Lot 1, which focused on enhancing road infrastructure and upgrading street lighting across the city. This initial phase set a solid foundation for the ongoing Lot 2, which is now under construction and includes the development of crucial transportation terminals and a new market center.
Lot 2 is divided into two phases: Phase One centers on building transportation terminals while Phase Two will focus on constructing the market center.
Ing. Mohamed Kamara, the Operations Manager for the project, provided an update on the current state of these developments. He reported that the transportation terminals are nearing completion, with 90-95% of the work finished. These terminals are designed to serve various modes of transport, including two terminals for Waka Fine buses, two for minibuses (including poda-podas), one for taxis and one for tricycles and motorcycles.
He further highlighted that the terminal area will feature several key facilities to enhance passenger and operator comfort. These include a Passenger Resting Building with canteens, restaurants and restrooms, and a Maintenance Building offering repair services, tire changes and vehicle washing. These amenities are expected to improve vehicle maintenance and ensure the overall efficiency and safety of the transportation system.
To address potential traffic congestion, particularly during major events such as the movement of presidential or ministerial convoys, Ing. Mohamed noted that the design includes alternative routes. These routes will allow convoys to bypass main thoroughfares, ensuring smooth traffic flow during peak times.
Regarding the market center, Ing. Hindolo Tibbie provided an update on its construction progress. The market center, a robust four-story structure, features a 1.5-meter-thick concrete basement designed to withstand the area’s swampy conditions. He described the market center as more than just a traditional marketplace as it aims to offer a comprehensive shopping experience similar to a modern mall.
According to him, the market center will include storage units for secure goods storage, a hospital for medical emergencies and entertainment areas for leisure activities. Special features will also include a bulk room for large-scale storage and a cool room for perishable goods. Strategic parking facilities are incorporated to facilitate smooth visitor access and efficient movement within the market compound.
Ing. Hindolo also addressed the engineering challenges encountered due to the swampy terrain. Advanced engineering techniques have been employed to ensure the structure’s durability and stability, he informed adding that despite an initial delay of one year for design and cost assessments, construction has been active for the past year and a half. The transportation terminals, he also intimated, are expected to be completed and handed over in September 2024, while the market center is progressing and will be completed in the near future.
The completion of this project is set to significantly impact the Lumley area and Freetown at large, it was noted.
Also, the new transportation terminals are anticipated to enhance public transport efficiency, reduce congestion and improve the commuting experience. Meanwhile, the market center is expected to become a bustling commercial hub, offering a range of goods and services to both residents and visitors. This development underscores Pavi Fort’s commitment to advancing Freetown’s infrastructure and meeting the needs of its growing population.
In recent developments, Minister of Works and Public Assets, Denis Sandy, along with a team of engineers from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) led by Ing. Patrick J. Lavalie, conducted a field inspection tour in Bonthe District on Saturday, August 17, 2024. The Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made by Pavi Fort, particularly in the road clearing at both ends of the Tabe Bridge and the preparation of the campsite. He was impressed by the detailed explanations provided by Ing. Lavalie and the Pavi Fort team and voiced confidence that the Tikonko-Kpetema Lot 2 Project would be completed on schedule.
This sentiment was echoed by Pavi Fort Chairman Alimu Sanu Barrie.
Work is set to commence on the 38.1-kilometer Tikonko-Kpetema Mattru Jong Road Lot II in Bonthe District, Southern Sierra Leone. The contract for this project was awarded to Pavi fort Road Construction Company by the SLRA a few weeks ago. This project includes the 38.1 kilometers of the Tikonko-Kpetema Mattru Jong Road Lot II and an additional 8 kilometers from the junction to Serabu.
During the contract awarding, the CEO of Pavi Fort committed to begin the transport of equipment and machinery immediately after the contract signing. This commitment has been fulfilled, as evidenced by the commencement of bush clearing for campsite construction.
The contract stipulates a 24-month duration for the construction of the 38.1 km road.
Additionally, the CSE Company has started transporting various equipment for the upcoming construction of the Bumpeh Bridge, which will connect Bo District with Bonthe District.
Lot 1 of the Mattru Road project, spanning from Kpetema to Mattru Jong, is currently underway. This contract was awarded to the Ghanaian construction company Maripoma.
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