ISLAMABAD, Aug 18: The World Bank has indicated that it will provide $2 billion for infrastructure development in the country, including rehabilitation of roads, railways and port facilities.

This was discussed at a meeting presided over by Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz here on Thursday at which a World Bank team made a presentation about improving infrastructure and logistic networks, according to an official statement.

The prime minister said the proposed funding would cover improvement of road network, railways and ports and streamlining of customs and documentation procedures. These measures, he added, would reduce operating costs and transit time.

He directed the planning commission to set up a coordination cell and prepare a plan in consultation with the World Bank experts within four weeks so that an appropriate decision could be taken without any delay.

The prime minister said that an efficient infrastructure could save 1 to 4 per cent of GDP but added that this would require increased investment, change in process and application of modern techniques and technology.

In its presentation, the World Bank team analyzed the condition of the infrastructure with particular reference to ports and shipping facilities, railway network and roads.