Businesses along Kumul Highway allowed to reopen with Ministry of Infrastructure’s clearance
February 2, 2025 10:05 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Ezra Toara.
The National Recovery Committee (NRC) yesterday declared that businesses along Kumul Highway Street, from Asco Motors through Prouds and up to Childcare, may now reopen if their buildings are certified as safe by structural engineers.
However, these businesses must first obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) before resuming operations.
Additionally, Order No. 8, signed yesterday, grants pedestrians the right to walk also in the area. However, the final decision on pedestrian access remains under discussion by emergency response agencies, including the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) and the MIPU. Authorities will assess the safety of the area before allowing unrestricted pedestrian movement.
The NRC has agreed to reopen Kumul Highway, specifically the section from Asco, passing through Grand Hotel Road, Prouds, and up to Childcare. This stretch, officially known as Rue de General de Gaulle, is being reopened to ease traffic congestion and support economic recovery. However, only businesses on the right-hand side of the road—starting from Healthwise to D’Dock Fuel Station, Butterfly Shop, and Chinese-owned businesses up to Microtech and Prouds—are permitted to operate at this stage.
While the Recovery Operations Centre (ROC) has authorised businesses to reopen, they must first receive clearance from the relevant authorities. Structural engineers must inspect and certify that buildings are safe before owners can re-enter their premises.
Regarding traffic control, the emergency response agencies in charge—the VPF and MIPU—will enforce security measures in restricted areas.
The left-hand side of the road, including Grand Hotel, Market House, and Au Bon Marché Downtown, remains under repair, and access to these areas is strictly prohibited.
Traffic and public transport activities, including bus stops and related infrastructure, are being managed by the police, public works, and municipal authorities. These agencies are coordinating efforts to maintain order and ensure the smooth flow of traffic, with key roads already reopened.
Further into the Central Business District (CBD), areas further beyond the former Post Office remain blocked and are subject to additional structural assessments. Once safety inspections and demolitions are completed, these areas will be reopened accordingly. Meanwhile, demolition work has already begun at the Moorings end of the highway. Once all necessary demolitions are completed, roadblocks will be lifted, and full access will be restored.
