World Bank Approves Supplemental Credit For Georgia Emergency Earthquake Rehabilitation Project

TBILISI, GEORGIA, March 14, 2003-- The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors yesterday approved a supplemental credit to the Georgian Social Investment Fund (GSIF) project in the amount of SDR 3.7 million, or approximately US$5.0 million equivalent, in response to the Government’s request for assistance in rehabilitating selected schools in Tbilisi damaged during the April 25, 2002 earthquake.

The selection of the schools was based on the criteria agreed with the government.  Because of the limited availability of resources, schools that had been most severely damaged and had high utilization rates are being given priority. In addition, the rehabilitated schools will be upgraded to to ensure a conducive learning environment for students and staff to the extent possible. The proposed technical upgrade of the physical structures can also minimize possible future damage and thereby protect the investment in the long run.

The Bank’s current program of assistance to Georgia comprises about US$293 million for 18 projects.

For more information on World Bank supported operations in Georgia please visit

http://www.worldbank.org.ge