KIRAKIRA

• SBIRA
• Latitude: -10.4154
• Longitude: 161.783
• North Australia
• Port in Solomon Islands

Location: Kirakira Solomon Islands

Port of Kirakira

General Overview:

The Port of Kirakira is situated in the small town of Kirakira, the provincial capital of the Makira-Ulawa Province in the Solomon Islands. As a relatively minor port, Kirakira serves as an essential gateway for the local community, supporting both the transportation of goods and passengers. Its primary role involves handling domestic trade and providing essential services for local fishermen and smaller vessels.

Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 10.4482° S
• Longitude: Approximately 161.9205° E

Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Wharves and Jetties:

   • The port features a main wharf which accommodates smaller cargo vessels and passenger boats.
   • Additional smaller jetties may be present for local fishing boats and inter-island traffic.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • Basic cargo handling equipment may be available; however, most operations may rely on manual labor and simpler machinery.
   • The port primarily handles essential goods such as food supplies, building materials, and general merchandise.

3. Storage:

   • Limited warehousing facilities are available for storing goods.
   • Open storage areas may be utilized for temporary storage of cargo.

4. Passenger Services:

   • Passenger ferries operate regularly to and from other islands and provincial capitals.
   • Basic amenities for passengers are available at the docking area.

5. Navigation:

   • The port is accessible to small and medium-sized vessels.
   • Navigational aids, such as buoys and beacons, could be sparse, therefore local knowledge and careful navigation are essential.

6. Support Services:

   • Limited repair and maintenance services for vessels.
   • Fueling facilities may be rudimentary or require advanced arrangements.
   • No large-scale dry dock facilities are available.

Operational Aspects:

• Authority and Management:

  • Managed by local provincial authorities in collaboration with national maritime organizations.
  • The port may also involve community participation in its operations and maintenance.

• Security:

  • Basic security measures in place, but infrastructure for advanced security could be limited.
  • Local police presence to ensure safety.

• Environmental Considerations:

  • Attention to environmental protection due to the pristine marine environment.
  • Protocols for waste management and pollution control might be implemented to preserve marine life and local biodiversity.

Economic and Social Impact:

• Economic Role:

  • Facilitates the supply chain for the local community.
  • Supports local fishing industry and inter-island trade, which are vital economic activities.

• Social Importance:

  • Crucial for connecting Kirakira to other parts of the Solomon Islands, reducing the isolation of the community.
  • Plays a key role in ensuring the availability of essential goods and services to the local population.

Conclusion:

The Port of Kirakira, while modest in scale and facilities, is vital for the economic and social well-being of the Kirakira community. It serves as a lifeline for inter-island commerce, supports local industries, and ensures that essential supplies reach the inhabitants of Makira-Ulawa Province. Despite its limitations, it remains an important hub in the network of maritime transportation within the Solomon Islands.