Qatari infrastructure funding up 70 pc

An increase of 70 percent in infrastructure development spending has been announced for Qatar's 2006-2007 budget.

Spending on such projects will reach QR18.4bn, up from last years budget expenditure for infrastructure of QR11.7bn, according to <i>The Penninsula</i>, quoting <i>QNA</i>.

Development of roads, sewage, electricity and water infrastructure will be funded by the spending.

Small and medium-sized industries, as well as the establishment of new airport and seaport will also be encouraged. 

Additionally, QR315m will be set aside alleviate housing shortage, with the completion of 2,451 housing units already underway planned.

QR385m has been allotted for senior staff construction as well.