World Bank said that about 250,000 people living along the Yenikend-Bilasuvar road would benefit from upgraded road infrastructure, as well as improved economic opportunities and easier access to essential service facilities.

As the only woman in Tajikistan who runs a bank, Sodiqova’s story inspires many young Tajik women to become entrepreneurs and start their own businesses.

The loans of the business entities in foreign currency, up to $1 million, will be converted into national currency by Uzbek commercial banks.

A far larger number of bidders had been expected at the auction of the plant, a local landmark founded in 1882.