Manila: (TDI): The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a $320 million loan to enhance the climate resilience and safety of roads in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
The funding will be utilized for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Roads Development Project, which aims to upgrade approximately 900 kilometers of rural roads in the province.
The project will address the poor condition and flood susceptibility of these roads, which are vital for connecting remote communities with essential services such as education, healthcare, and markets.
Key components of the initiative include integrating climate-resilient designs, improving road safety, and adopting sustainable maintenance practices.
ADB Director General for Central and West Asia, Yevgeniy Zhukov, highlighted the project’s importance, stating, “Road transport is essential for the socioeconomic development of Pakistan.
This infrastructure upgrade will reduce travel time, cut transportation costs, and enhance access to economic opportunities for millions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he said.
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Zhukov added that by improving connectivity, we are fostering inclusive economic growth in one of the country’s most underserved regions.
The region has faced increased rainfall and temperature fluctuations, exacerbating the impact of disasters on infrastructure.
Flooding events since 2010 have significantly damaged the road network, impeding connectivity and raising transportation costs.
ADB’s Support
The ADB’s support includes technical and financial assistance for the government to develop targeted interventions aimed at improving the climate resilience and sustainability of the road network.
ADB Senior Transport Specialist, Seunghyun Kim, noted, “We will assist the government in conducting a comprehensive study on flood susceptibility and landslide vulnerability to prioritize road improvements.”
“We will also support the preparation of concessional contracts for the maintenance of 2 key tourism roads to ensure long-term sustainability.”
Pakistan, a founding member of ADB, has received over 52 billion dollars in grants, loans, and other forms of financing from the bank since 1966.
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These funds have been directed towards promoting inclusive economic growth, and enhancing infrastructure, energy, and social services in the country.
Established in 1966, ADB is dedicated to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and Pacific, with ongoing efforts to eradicate extreme poverty.
The bank is owned by 68 members, including 49 from the region.
