Reconstruction

During the violence that erupted after the East Timorese voted for independence in 1999, almost 80 percent of the territory’s infrastructure was destroyed. Before long-term development can begin, basic infrastructure, such as housing, water and sanitation systems and public buildings need to be reconstructed. In response to a request from UNTAET, UNDP and UNOPS have played a pivotal role in the coordination, resource mobilization and project implementation in this area.

It is estimated that 70 percent of infrastructure was destroyed during the post-ballot crisis.
At the peak of the crisis one third of the population were refugees and close to 600,000 people were displaced.
Before the crisis one in four people had electricity. These were mainly in Dili.

The joy of clean drinking water. UNDP and UNOPS have been working both in Dili and other areas of East Timor to help ensure that it is available to all.

Rebuilding and Maintaining Roads – The road network that criss-crosses East Timor is in an extremely fragile state. This is as a result of poor maintenance and little upgrading over many years. During the rainy season, many roads become impassable making it virtually impossible for some communities to access markets, schools or health services. The isolation of many communities in this way slows the socio-economic growth of East Timor. UNDP and UNOPS are working to carry out emergency repairs and keeping key road links open.

Providing Water and Sanitation – Before the crisis that followed the vote for independence, less than half the population had access to safe water and sanitation facilities. Those that did, saw most of their facilities destroyed during the crisis. In coordination with the Transitional Administration, local communities and other organizations, UNDP is working to meet water and sanitation needs in two districts as well as Dili. UNDP is also supporting the development of national water and sanitation management strategies.

Rehabilitation of Power Sector – Under previous regimes few East Timorese had the opportunity to learn technical and management skills. When the Indonesians withdrew, there were few people who had the skills and knowledge to reestablish such vital services as the power authority. UNDP and UNOPS are supporting skills training in the power sector, maintaining the Dili power station, and reconstructing rural power stations.

Rehabilitation of Irrigation – Agriculture in East Timor is the most important economic sector. One of the major impediments to better agricultural production is the shortage of irrigated water. Maintenance of irrigation systems has been neglected. UNDP and UNOPS are working to rehabilitate these systems.
Restoring the Port Facilities – The Dili Port is East Timor’s major harbor. However, due to lack of maintenance and upgrading, the port is in poor condition and the sudden influx of aid and commercial ships is stretching the port’s capacity. UNDP and UNOPS are working to upgrade the port and give workers the skills to manage and maintain it in the future.

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