Pakistan has taken another step toward improving its national infrastructure after signing fresh agreements with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for three major development initiatives.
The new financing aims to strengthen railway connectivity, improve urban transport, and upgrade water systems in key regions.
Under the agreements, ADB will provide support for the preparation of two major transport projects: the Karachi–Rohri portion of Main Line-I and the Quetta Bus Rapid Transit system.
The Karachi–Rohri ML-I Project Readiness Financing is valued at $10 million, while the Quetta BRT preparation support amounts to $3.8 million. Additionally, Balochistan’s water sector will receive $48 million in extra financing to expand ongoing efforts to improve water management and agricultural productivity.
According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, these investments will help lay the foundation for long-term economic stability by addressing critical infrastructure gaps.
The ministry noted that better transport systems, efficient water use, and modernised connectivity are essential for supporting both urban populations and rural communities.
ADB’s Country Director, Emma Fan, praised Pakistan’s commitment to advancing these projects. She said the initiatives for Balochistan are especially important for improving service delivery in underserved areas.
Fan also highlighted the ML-I readiness work as a crucial milestone in Pakistan’s broader plan to modernise its railway network.
Officials from the Economic Affairs Ministry urged all implementing agencies to ensure timely use of the funds so the planned improvements can move forward without delays.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working together on Pakistan’s development priorities, signalling continued collaboration in the months ahead.