Authorities aim to reduce waterborne diseases, strengthen urban local governments
The World Bank. Photo: file
The World Bank has approved $400 million for a new project to improve water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services and urban governance in 16 secondary towns in Punjab.
The Punjab Inclusive Cities Program (PICP) will finance the rehabilitation of water supply networks, sewerage systems, sewage treatment plants and stormwater drainage.
It will also strengthen the capacity of local governments to provide sustainable services, generate revenue and manage solid waste, including safe disposal systems.
Read: Floods versus economy: WB warns Pakistan’s FY26 growth at risk
According to Bolormaa Amgaabazar, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, “Reducing child stunting is critical to Pakistan’s future. Through the Punjab Inclusive Cities program, we are investing in clean water, sanitation and hygiene services to break the cycle of malnutrition and disease that prevents so many children from achieving their full potential.”
She added that the project represents “a significant step forward in improving urban infrastructure and strengthening local institutions, thereby laying the foundations for healthier communities and a more prosperous Pakistan.”
The program aims to provide safe drinking water, sanitation, hygiene and drainage services to approximately 4.5 million people, while improved solid waste management services will benefit an additional 2 million people.
The project is expected to help reduce healthcare costs by reducing water-borne diseases, supporting efforts to reduce stunting among children, and strengthening the capacity of urban local governments.
According to Amena Raja, Senior Urban Specialist at the World Bank, “The program complements infrastructure investments with capacity building and income generation, helping to ensure that service delivery is well supported. It will also help Punjab’s cities become more resilient to floods and droughts, thereby ensuring eco-friendly and climate-resilient urban development.”
Learn more: World Bank pledges $40 billion to Pakistan
The program includes gender-focused elements, such as prioritizing the hiring of women in decision-making positions, establishing gender complaints offices, and offering skills-building programs for female staff.
Community awareness campaigns on domestic hygiene are also part of the project. Additionally, the program aims to mobilize private investment to support water and sanitation services in secondary cities.
The PICP aligns with national development priorities and complements provincial efforts such as the Punjab Development Program and the Suthra Punjab Program. This is the second phase of the World Bank’s multi-phased programmatic approach for urban water, sanitation and hygiene services in Pakistan.
