The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $48 million loan for Pakistan. The new financing will support major irrigation projects in Balochistan. ADB announced the approval in an official statement.
According to ADB, the loan will fund the construction and improvement of irrigation systems in the province. The project will upgrade water channels in the Sari Toi Dam command area. It will also support the installation of new water supply lines. Officials say these improvements will boost water availability for local farmers.
ADB confirmed that the funds will also support the Chhuri Infiltration Gallery Project. This scheme aims to enhance groundwater recharge in the region. The project has faced delays due to funding shortages. The new loan will help resume stalled construction work.
The bank added that the financing is part of its broader support for the Balochistan Water Resources Development Project. This programme focuses on sustainable water management. It also aims to increase agricultural productivity in arid areas of the province. ADB said the new loan is an “additional financing package” requested by Pakistan to cover rising project costs.
Balochistan faces water scarcity and weak irrigation infrastructure. These challenges have limited crop yields and hurt rural livelihoods. The updated project will address these issues. It will help farmers access more reliable irrigation water. Experts believe this will raise agricultural output and strengthen food security.
The bank stated that the project will also introduce modern irrigation methods. It will promote efficient water use. It will also reduce water losses in outdated channels. ADB officials say the improvements will support long-term economic stability in the province.
Pakistan has partnered with ADB on several water and agriculture programmes. The new financing reflects the bank’s continued support for development in under-served regions. The government welcomed the decision and called it a “timely intervention”.
The project is expected to start immediately. Construction teams will work on supply lines, channels, and infiltration structures. Authorities aim to speed up work to prevent further delays.
The government says the loan will help improve water access, support farming communities, and stabilise local economies across Balochistan.
