Abdul Ghani

Pakistan received Rs360.81 million (US$1.28 million) in November 2025 for the Balochistan Water Resource Development Project, according to official data released by the Ministry of Economic Affairs in its foreign economic assistance report.

The project has a total allocation of Rs8.7 billion (US$30 million) for FY2025-26 and is being financed through a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Cumulative disbursements for the project have reached Rs1.14 billion (US$4.05 million) for the July–November period of the ongoing fiscal year, reflecting continued fund releases in line with implementation progress.

The project has been launched to address long-standing water-sector challenges in the province, where low rainfall, prolonged droughts, and excessive reliance on groundwater have severely constrained agricultural activity. Despite being Pakistan’s largest province by area, Balochistan has limited water storage capacity and underdeveloped irrigation infrastructure, contributing to low agricultural productivity and increased vulnerability of rural communities.

A key objective of the project is to improve irrigation efficiency and strengthen water resource management systems in targeted areas. The initiative focuses on improved planning and regulation of surface and groundwater use, aiming to reduce water losses and ensure more equitable distribution of available resources. Through the modernization of irrigation practices, the project seeks to support sustainable farming and enhance crop yields in water-stressed regions.

Alongside infrastructure development, the project places emphasis on strengthening institutional capacity related to water management. This includes improving the ability of provincial institutions to plan, operate, and maintain water systems effectively. Enhanced governance and technical capacity are expected to support the long-term sustainability of water resources in the province.

Officials noted that reliable water availability is critical for economic stability in Balochistan, where agriculture remains a key source of livelihoods. By improving irrigation access and addressing inefficiencies in water use, the project is expected to contribute to food security, income generation, and climate resilience.

The phased release of funds indicates ongoing implementation, with further disbursements expected as project activities advance in line with agreed milestones.

Credit: INP-WealthPk