KATHMANDU, JUNE 18 Minister for Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal has said the government has allocated Rs 88.33 billion for the Intensive Urban Programme aimed at systematically developing and managing market areas in around 300 towns across the country. Responding to lawmakers during deliberations on the Appropriation Bill, 2083 in the House of Representatives on Thursday, Minister Lamsal said the programme would be implemented under a three-year action plan. He said the government plans to reduce the public procurement process from the existing 18–21 months to six to seven months to expedite project implementation. Clarifying concerns over the budget size, the minister said the programme's annual allocation appears smaller because it is spread over a three-year timeframe. Although the budget book lists Rs 286 billion, projects worth around Rs 1.15 trillion have been planned for implementation over the next three years, he added. Addressing concerns over road safety and inadequate road and bridge infrastructure in rural areas, Lamsal said priority has been given to road safety measures, beautification and the development of user-friendly infrastructure. He also noted that separate budget headings have been created for road maintenance and repairs. The minister further said the government aims to provide access to clean drinking water to 65 percent of the population within three years and 90 percent within five years, adding that at least Rs 100 million has been allocated to 15 divisional offices for neglected and essential projects.