By Abdul Ghani

The Balochistan government has moved forward with the procurement process for a major flood management initiative to enhance water security, improve agricultural productivity, and strengthen climate resilience in the province's Kachhi plains.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the World Bank-backed Balochistan Water Security and Productivity Improvement Project – Component-A (Flood Management of Kachhi Plains) has reached the procurement approval stage, marking a key milestone toward implementation.

The documents recommend swift contract awards and contractor mobilisation to begin work as early as possible. They also emphasize completing the project's feasibility and design work while securing approval for the next phase of implementation to ensure timely execution and the achievement of long-term development goals.

The project falls under the water resources sector and is financed by the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank. The Balochistan government's Planning and Development Department will coordinate and oversee implementation.

Official records classify the initiative as a high-priority development project because of its strategic role in addressing recurring flood risks and improving water resource management. The project is scheduled for completion by December 31, 2031.

The flood management component is expected to protect agricultural land, improve water storage and management systems, and reduce the vulnerability of communities in the Kachhi plains to seasonal flooding. Improved flood control infrastructure is also expected to increase agricultural productivity and support long-term socio-economic development in the region.

The documents note that timely procurement, contract awards, and contractor mobilization will be critical for keeping the project on schedule.

It also highlights the importance of finalising technical studies and approvals to ensure that the World Bank-supported initiative proceeds without unnecessary delays, enabling the province to strengthen its flood resilience and water security over the coming years.

Credit: INP-WealthPk