In a significant move to boost Pakistan’s infrastructure and economic growth, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $320 million loan to support the rehabilitation of rural roads in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The project aims to upgrade approximately 900 kilometers of roads, enhancing safe and all-weather connectivity in rural areas.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Roads Development Project will focus on key routes that link remote communities to essential services like education, healthcare, and markets. The project incorporates climate-resilient design, road safety enhancement, and sustainable maintenance practices to ensure the longevity of the roads.
“Road transport is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and this project will revolutionize connectivity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” said ADB Director General Yevgeniy Zhukov. “By providing better access to markets and services, we are empowering local communities and driving inclusive economic growth in one of Pakistan’s most underserved regions.”
The project is crucial for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has faced significant damage to its road network due to flooding events since 2010. The lack of resilient infrastructure has hampered connectivity, escalated transportation costs, and affected the livelihoods of millions.
ADB will also provide technical and financial support to assist the government in preparing long-term targeted interventions to enhance the climate resilience and sustainability of the province’s road network. This includes conducting a comprehensive study on flood susceptibility and landslide vulnerability to identify priority roads.
Since 1966, ADB has committed over $52 billion in financing to promote inclusive economic growth in Pakistan, with a focus on infrastructure development, energy, food security, transport networks, and social services.
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