Authorities aim to reduce waterborne diseases and strengthen urban local authorities
The World Bank. Photo: file
The World Bank has approved $400 million for a new project to improve water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) services and urban governance in 16 secondary cities across Punjab.
The Punjab Inclusive Cities Program (PICP) will finance the rehabilitation of water supply networks, sewage systems, sewage treatment plants and stormwater drainage.
It will also strengthen the capacity of local authorities for sustainable service delivery, revenue generation and solid waste management, including safe disposal systems.
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According to Bolormaa Amgaabazar, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, “Reducing childhood 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 holds so many children back from reaching their full potential.”
She added that the project represents a “significant step forward in improving urban infrastructure and strengthening local institutions, thereby laying the foundation for healthier communities and a more prosperous Pakistan.”
The program aims to provide safe water, sanitation, hygiene and sanitation services to about 4.5 million people, while improved solid waste management services will benefit another 2 million people.
The project is expected to help reduce healthcare costs by lowering water-borne diseases, support efforts to reduce child stunting and strengthen the capacity of local authorities in cities.
According to Amena Raja, Senior Urban Specialist at the World Bank, “The program complements infrastructure investments with capacity building and revenue generation, helping to ensure that service delivery is well maintained. It will also help Punjab’s cities to better withstand floods and droughts, and ensure that urban development is environmentally responsible and climate resilient.”
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The program includes gender-focused components, such as prioritizing the employment of women in decision-making roles, establishing gender grievance desks and offering skill-building programs for female employees.
Information campaigns on household hygiene are also part of the project. In addition, the program aims to mobilize private investment to support water and sanitation services in secondary cities.
The PICP is aligned with national development priorities and complements provincial efforts such as the Punjab Development Program and the Suthra Punjab Programme. It constitutes the second phase of the World Bank’s Pakistan Urban Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Services multi-phased programmatic approach.
