WB to review second disaster management project

The World Bank (WB) will review a loan request submitted by the government of St. Lucia for the second disaster management project, according to a just released WB loan request document. The physical development, environment & housing ministry's project coordination unit will head up works, estimated to cost a total US$7.5mn. Of that amount, US$1.5mn will be borrowed from the government. Specific works include construction of protective infrastructure, such as retention walls, strengthening the national emergency management office and telecommunication, works and public utilities ministry and overall project management works. The project aims at reducing the vulnerability of key economic and social infrastructure, by minimizing damages caused by adverse natural events and reducing disruption of economic activities in the event of a disaster emergency According to the document, the estimated board approval date is June 22, 2004. The first disaster management project was approved in December 1998 and cost a total US$7.6mn, according the Bank's website. Some 160,000 people live on the island.