UN official estimates Gaza reconstruction coast at $50 billion

A United Nations Development Program (UNDP) official said Tuesday that the reconstruction cost in the Gaza Strip could reach $50 billion as about two million people are without shelter. Abdullah Al-Dardari, Director of the UNDP Regional Office for Arab States, said the most dangerous stage is the day after a ceasefire as the displaced and those who lost their homes are awaiting the reconstruction process to start. He said the early recovery program's costs is about $2 billion and the overall reconstruction process is estimated at about $50 billion, according to the United Nations Information Office. Al-Dardari said a mechanism must be in place for a sufficient number of ready-made temporary homes to enter Gaza the day after a ceasefire, as well as associated health, education, drinking water, sanitation, and electricity services. Source: Jordan News Agency