Rp 22b allocated for civil projects

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: The Ministry of Public Works has earmarked Rp 22 billion (US$3.4 million) for the construction of public facilities in various settlements in this province. The funds come from both the state budget and foreign loans.

Antara quoted Robert Indratno of the provincial public works office as saying on Thursday that projects included the construction of village roads, drainage systems, the provision of a clean water supply and the repair of bridges in isolated areas in 12 regencies. Puncak Jaya is the only regency with no projects planned.

"That is because our office has not yet carried out a survey on the environmental problems that have to be handled there," he said.

However, Robert said there is a possibility that a clean water supply facility will be built in Mulia, the capital of Puncak Jaya, where thousands of civil servants, military personnel and residents have had to use the river running through the city from the foot of Cartenz Peak.

The construction projects will be carried out by 135 groups of small-scale companies. (swe)