In a significant move to bolster the country's defenses against climate change, the Government of Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) formalized agreements for two major projects on Tuesday. The combined financing of these climate resilience initiatives amounts to $304.5 million, targeting critical vulnerabilities in Sindh and Punjab.
Boosting Sindh's Coastal Defenses
The Sindh Coastal Resilience Sector Project (SCRP), valued at $180.5 million, is designed to protect vulnerable communities along the Sindh coast. Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, stated that the project will focus on integrated water resources and flood risk management. A key component involves restoring nature-based coastal defenses to act as a buffer against storms and sea intrusion.
The financial structure for this initiative includes a $140.5 million package from the ADB, comprising a loan and a technical assistance grant. This is complemented by $40 million from the Green Climate Fund and $20 million in counterpart funding from the Government of Sindh. The project is set to directly benefit over 3.8 million people residing in the districts of Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin, safeguarding their livelihoods, food security, and local biodiversity.
Transforming Punjab's Agricultural Landscape
The second agreement is for the Punjab Climate Resilient and Low Carbon Agriculture Mechanization Project, with a total value of $129 million. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and build climate resilience across 30 districts of Punjab.
The project will improve small farmers' access to climate-smart machinery and promote circular agriculture practices to reduce harmful residue burning. It also includes plans to establish testing and training facilities. A notable social impact goal is the empowerment of 15,000 women through skills development and support for livelihood diversification. The funding comprises a $120 million ADB loan, a $4 million ADB grant, and $5 million from the Government of Punjab.
A Transformative Partnership for Sustainable Growth
Secretary Karim emphasized the transformative nature of both projects. He noted that while the Sindh project protects coastal communities, the Punjab initiative is a driver for sustainable, low-carbon agricultural growth and inclusive development. The secretary expressed sincere appreciation for the ADB's role as a trusted development partner.
Ms. Emma Fan, ADB's Country Director for Pakistan, echoed this sentiment, appreciating the government's strong commitment. She highlighted the Sindh project's significance in addressing climate-induced risks and praised the Punjab project as a critical step toward modernizing agriculture and reducing emissions. Both parties committed to ensuring the effective and timely utilization of the financing for the successful completion of these vital climate resilience initiatives.
