The World Bank has approved a $250 mln financing package for Uzbekistan. The funds will be used to modernise infrastructure and services in 16 cities and districts. The programme is expected to improve living standards for about 1 mln people.
The project is part of the Livable and Productive Cities Program (LPCP). It aims to support urban development amid rapid population growth. Currently, more than half of Uzbekistan’s population lives in cities. By 2050, this share could exceed 60%.
Funding will be allocated to upgrade roads, water supply and sewage systems, public transport, parks and other public spaces. Social infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens and healthcare facilities, will also be improved.
The programme will cover the cities of Yangiyul and Margilan, as well as 14 districts: Kungrad, Chimbay, Asak, Gijduvan, Gallyaaral, Yakkabag, Khatyrchi, Chartak, Bulungur, Syrdarya, Denau, Kuva, Shavat and Khazarasp.
Implementation will be managed by the Ministry of Economy and Finance in partnership with local authorities.
By 2030, around 300,000 people are expected to have better access to transport. Approximately 400,000 residents will benefit from new parks and public spaces. The construction work will create about 10,000 temporary jobs. Around half of the programme’s beneficiaries will be women.
Kursiv also reports that on December 13 the World Bank has approved a $250 mln loan to Uzbekistan to expand access to student loans under the new EduImkon programme.
