The liberalization policy implemented in the 1970s helped Sri Lanka to achieve middle-incomecountry status in 2010. Sri Lanka is now poised for the next phase of economic growth and productive employment. The two principal drivers of investment for sustained high economic growth are international competitiveness for export-led growth and urbanization. Crucial to both is efficient infrastructure that shortens the international supply chain and brings about agglomeration benefits. Investing in Infrastructure: Harnessing Its Potential for Growth in Sri Lanka has two objectives: - To improve...

Greening Growth in Pakistan through Transport Sector Reforms: A Strategic Environmental, Poverty, and Social Assessment identifies reforms that can help Pakistan manage its environmental priorities given transport's impacts on air quality, noise pollution, road safety, hazardous-materials transport, climate change, and urban sprawl. The policy options are contextualized in light of the government of Pakistan's 2011 Framework for Economic Growth and its strategic objectives. This analytical work examines the poverty, social, and environmental aspects associated with reforms that would increase...

Pakistan's population is growing and becoming more urbanized. By 2020, Karachi and Lahore will each have a population of well over 10 million people and several other cities will have a population of at least one million. These trends offer both risks and opportunities. Badly managed urban centers with poor services and slim opportunity for gainful employment could become centers of discontent and social conflict. Alternatively, properly managed and well-connected cities can help firms become more competitive, and with the right set of policies, promote industrialization and life-changing...