ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $320 million loan to support the rehabilitation of roads in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, aiming to improve road safety and provide year-round connectivity in rural areas.
According to an ADB press release issued on Friday, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Roads Development Project will enhance approximately 900 kilometers of rural roads in the province, many of which are prone to flooding and are in poor condition.
These roads are crucial for connecting remote communities to essential services such as education, healthcare, and markets. The project will include climate-resilient designs, improvements in road safety, and sustainable maintenance practices.
“Road transport is essential for both the people and economic development in Pakistan. This important project will shorten travel times, reduce transportation costs, and broaden economic opportunities for millions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” stated Yevgeniy Zhukov, ADB Director General for Central and West Asia.
“By improving access to markets and services, we are supporting local communities and fostering inclusive economic growth in one of Pakistan’s most underserved regions,” Zhukov added.
The province has experienced increased rainfall and temperature patterns, exacerbating the impact of disasters due to inadequate infrastructure. Floods since 2010 have severely damaged the road network, affecting connectivity and raising transportation costs.
The project will provide both technical and financial assistance to the government for long-term, targeted interventions aimed at boosting the climate resilience and sustainability of the province’s road infrastructure.
“ADB will help the government conduct a detailed study on flood susceptibility and landslide risks across the province to identify priority roads,” said Seunghyun Kim, ADB Senior Transport Specialist.
“We will also assist in preparing concessional contracts for the operation and maintenance of two tourism roads, which will enhance the road network’s sustainability,” Kim added.
Pakistan has been a founding member of ADB since its establishment. Since 1966, ADB has committed over $52 billion in loans, grants, and other financial support to promote inclusive economic growth and improve infrastructure, energy, food security, transport networks, and social services in Pakistan.
To Keep Updated Visit & Follow our Facebook Page Or Our Website
