House prices continue to rise in many parts of Russia, with normal flats often costing 16 times more than the average family earns in a year. But a government initiative called the 'National Project' is looking at ways of making homes more affordable for

According to the government's own criteria, nearly two-thirds of Russians are living in cramped conditions.
 
Experts say the National Project on housing launched two years ago is a step in the right direction. Funded with state and private money, it is meant to spark a construction boom and create social housing.
 
“The government had promised that by 2007 a third of all the young families would have adequate housing. By 2010, the figure is supposed to be 100%,” said Vladimir Meilitsev from National Projects magazine.
 
Meanwhile, house prices are rising fast. A lack of town planning and infrastructure means not enough new houses are coming onto the market. There are also shortages of construction materials and manpower.
 
But even with the kinks ironed out, the National Project is simply not big enough. Even if all the targets are met, it would take 40 years to satisfy the housing needs of the population.