PESHAWAR, June 19: The NWFP government has projected in the 2004-05 budget a total of Rs27 million to be spent on the environment sector.

The allocation for this sector has been increased this year as the budget document shows that Rs5.3 million was set aside in 2003-04.

Seven schemes, both new and old ones, have been included in the new budget expenditures, including the establishment of four model environmental villages, environmental protection of Swat and Panjkora Rivers and preparation of environmental profile of the NWFP.

Environment Protection Agency (Epa) officials said that due to a 'lack of staff and capacity' the agency could not utilize funds allocated in the outgoing fiscal. They said the government would have to strengthen the capacity of Epa to ensure 100 per cent utilization of funds.

The government has estimated to spend Rs3 million for the establishment of model environmental villages in the province.

An official said that under the plan Epa would ensure proper sanitation and solid waste management facilities, conduct forestation campaigns and set up environmental clubs in the model villages to create awareness among people.