RASHT, Gilan Prov. - Some Rls.253.26 billion have been alloted to execution of development projects in this northern province, the provincial governor general Ali Soufi said here Saturday. He told reporters that the sum is 22 percent less than what was approved by the cabinet ministers adding that the reduction was due to financial problems of the country. He said that building roads, highways, health centers, railways, schools and providing water and electricity to rural areas are among the development projects under construction throughout the province.

Some 342 development projects, completed at a cost of over Rls. 119 billion, will be inaugurated during the government week (August 24-31), Soufi added. (IRNA)