Introduction
The rapid growth of the urban population is certainly
the most well known phenomenon concerning
developing countries. Another remarkable evolution,
however, is the increasing importance of cities in the
economic development of these countries. Sixty percent
of their GDP is already produced in the urban
areas (WRI et al., 1996) and will account for 80% of
their future economic growth (Bartone, 1994).
There is no doubt today that infrastructure has a
positive impact on production, productivity and revenue
per habitant, and therefore on economic development
(Kessides, 1996). It explains greatly that
among urban issues discussed by researchers, administrators
and international organisations, infrastructure1
is accorded as one of the highest priorities
because of its major role in the economy. For that