The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an additional $48 million loan to help complete important parts of the Balochistan Water Resources Development Sector Project.
Why the extra funding?
Several key subprojects were delayed due to lack of funds. The new loan will help finish:
- Churi Infiltration Gallery
- Siri Toi Dam command area development
- Watershed management activities (to reduce land degradation and manage floods)
What improvements will be made?
- A modern piped irrigation network in the Siri Toi command area (more efficient than old, open channels).
- Better irrigation efficiency, more reliable water supply, and reduced soil erosion.
- Watershed work like afforestation, soil conservation, and check dams to prevent floods and preserve land.
Project focus areas
- Zhob and Mula river basins
- Siri Toi Dam will store 36 million cubic meters of water
- Will support irrigation and water supply over 16,592 hectares, including 1,839 hectares of rainwater-harvesting farms.
Why is it important for Balochistan?
- Balochistan faces extreme water scarcity, droughts, and climate impacts.
- Agriculture makes up two-thirds of the province’s economy and employs 60% of its population.
- The project will support livelihoods, especially for women in agriculture.
- Aims to build a climate-resilient, sustainable water management system.
Who is co-financing the project?
- Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific
- High-Level Technology Fund
