CM Murad Discusses $1.3 Billion ADB Development Projects for Sindh

KARACHI - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is set to play a significant role in the development of Sindh, with a focus on a $1.3 billion portfolio aimed at enhancing infrastructure and education in the province. Recently, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met with ADB Country Director Emma Fan to discuss various projects that promise to transform the region's landscape and improve the quality of life for its residents.

During their meeting at the Chief Minister's House, the two leaders explored opportunities for collaboration, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development. The Chief Minister outlined his government's priorities, which include improving public transport, education, and infrastructure in Sindh.

One of the key projects discussed was the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line, which aims to create a sustainable urban transport system in Karachi. This project is expected to benefit approximately 1.5 million people by providing a 26.6 km corridor that focuses on accessibility and mobility needs. Notably, this will be Pakistan's first BRT system powered by bio-methane derived from cattle waste, contributing to environmental sustainability.

In terms of progress, the physical completion of the BRT Red Line is currently at 18.37% for Lot I and 16.06% for Lot II. The Chief Minister expressed his commitment to accelerating the work on this vital corridor.

Another significant initiative is the Sindh Secondary Education Improvement Project (SSEIP), which aims to construct 160 secondary school blocks in existing primary schools across ten districts. This project is designed to bridge the gap between primary and post-primary education, enhancing teaching capacity in key subjects such as English, mathematics, and science. With a budget of Rs13.1 billion, the project has already awarded civil works contracts for 117 schools, with construction underway and teacher training planned for December 2024.

The Emergency Flood Assistance Project (EFAP) was also a focal point of discussion. This initiative aims to rehabilitate roads affected by the floods in September 2022 across 18 districts, ensuring that communities have access to essential services such as markets and healthcare. The project, valued at Rs48.4 billion, is currently in progress, with construction activities on all 17 awarded road packages being carried out.

Furthermore, the Sindh Flood Emergency Housing Reconstruction Project aims to support the construction of at least 250,000 multi-hazard resilient houses, benefiting approximately 1.5 million people. This project will also focus on community-led infrastructure improvements, such as WASH facilities for 100,000 houses.

The discussions between Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and ADB Country Director Emma Fan mark a significant step towards addressing the pressing needs of Sindh's infrastructure and education sectors. With a clear commitment to sustainable development and community welfare, these projects have the potential to uplift the lives of millions in the province. As these initiatives progress, they will not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous Sindh.