World Bank announces $400mn project to improve urban services and resilience in Pakistan

The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved $400 million in financing for a project that will provide safely managed water, sanitation and basic hygiene services in Punjab, and help improve the institutional and financial performance of local urban administration.

According to a statement, the Punjab Inclusive Cities Program (PICP) will support the improvement and rehabilitation of water supply networks, sewerage systems, and wastewater treatment plants, provide stormwater drainage, and enhance the capacity of local governments to sustainably deliver services and increase revenues in 16 secondary cities in Punjab.

The program will also support the improved performance of solid waste management systems in Punjab, including for the sanitary disposal of waste.

“Reducing child stunting is essential for Pakistan’s future. Through the Punjab Inclusive Cities Program, we are investing in safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services to break the cycle of malnutrition and disease that holds back so many children from reaching their full potential,” said Bolormaa Amgaabazar, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan.

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“In collaboration with the Punjab government, the program represents a significant step forward in improving urban infrastructure and strengthening local institutions, thereby laying the foundation for healthier communities and a more prosperous Pakistan.”

PICP aims to deliver improved water, sanitation, hygiene and drainage services to approximately 4.5 million people and improved solid waste management services to an additional 2 million people.

World Bank says that the program will help reduce healthcare costs by lowering waterborne disease, lower child stunting rates, and strengthen the capacity of urban local governments to deliver sustainable services.

“The program complements infrastructure investments with capacity building and revenue generation, helping to ensure that service delivery is well sustained,” said Amena Raja, Senior Urban Specialist for the World Bank. “It will also help Punjab’s cities better withstand floods and droughts, ensuring urban development is both environmentally responsible and resilient to climate change.”

The program also delivers important gender benefits by prioritising hiring women, especially in decision-making roles, establishing gender complaint desks, and providing targeted capacity building to help female workers develop new skills and advance, read the statement, stated the global lender.

The program aims to mobilise private capital to support water and sanitation services in secondary cities in Punjab.

World Bank noted that the new program aligns with Pakistan’s national development priorities and provides support to ongoing provincial programs, including the Punjab Development Program and the Suthra Punjab Program.

It is the second phase of the World Bank-supported Pakistan Urban Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Services Multiphase Programmatic Approach.