The ADB announced Dec 17 a new US $20 million loan, to be used for improving

basic water and sanitation services in seven provincial towns across the

country.

The ADB cited Cambodia's dilapidated urban infrastructure

following two decades of civil strife, as well as the strains resulting from the

rapid influx of people moving into the towns from the

countryside.

Specifically, the Provincial Towns Improvement Project

will:

• Improve sanitation conditions among poor communities in Battambang, Kompong

  Cham, and Sihanoukville, with the involvement of an NGO and extensive community

  participation.

• Upgrade or rehabilitate water production facilities.
• Construct a sewage collection and transmission network and a treatment plant

  in Sihanoukville.

• Recommend legal and administrative structures, and action plans for related

  revenue generation.