World Bank approves $38M credit to developing water resources in Pakistan

Islamabad, June 28 PPI: World Bank approved $38 million IDA credit to Pakistan to support management and development of water resources in Indus River Basin.

This along with urgent reforms is critical to meet longer-term impact of rising food
and energy needs, a press release said Friday.

Indus Basin Irrigation System is largest contiguous irrigation system in the world
and Pakistan relies on it to provide basic food security and to supply water for all
sectors of economy.

However, this massive infrastructure network is deteriorating and needs to be
rehabilitated. Equally important would be reforms to improve allocation of water and
its efficient use.

Water Sector Capacity Building and Advisory Services Project aims to improve
management of Pakistan's water resources and strengthen those federal institutions
involved in water resource planning, management, and development.

The project would address institutional, human resource capacity building,
fundamental, technical and investment issues associated with large water
infrastructure.

Yusupha Crookes, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan said water sector issues
were enormous and complex and addressing them would require a series of investments
and long-term commitment. "We hope project will build foundation for renewal and
sustainability of water sector, which in turn will lead to better water services and
improved irrigation and hydropower development."

The development and management of Indus Basin is huge challenge requiring very high
levels of administrative, engineering and scientific capability, said Masood Ahmad,
World Bank Lead Water Resources Specialist and project team leader.