The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has awarded a multi-million dollar Iraq emergency infrastructure repair and rehabilitation contract to California-based Bechtel. The initial award for this contract is $34.6 million, though it provides for funding of up to $680 million over 18 months. Funding is subject to Congressional authority and availability.
Restoration of the country's key infrastructure is a priority of the US government's effort to strengthen Iraq's economy and ensure delivery of essential public services to the Iraqi population.
The contract calls for the repair, rehabilitation or reconstruction of vital elements of Iraq's infrastructure. This includes assessment and repair of power generation facilities, electrical grids, municipal water systems and sewage systems.
There is also a provision in the contract for the rehabilitation or repair of airport facilities, and the dredging, repair and upgrading of the Umm Qasr seaport, in close cooperation with other USAID contractors working in those sectors.
The contract may also involve responsibility for the repair and reconstruction of hospitals, schools, selected ministry buildings and major irrigation structures, as well as restoration of essential transport links. It is anticipated that Bechtel will work through subcontractors on a number of these tasks after identifying specific needs. Through all of its activities, it will also engage the Iraqi population and work to build local capacity.
The capital construction contract is part of USAID's planned reconstruction assistance to the Iraqi people, aimed at helping maintain stability, ensure the delivery of essential services, and facilitate economic recovery. This is one of eight initial requests for proposals (RFPs) issued by USAID as part of its overall relief and reconstruction efforts in Iraq. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
