World Bank Boosts Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Projects with $108 Million

The World Bank has sanctioned $108 million in supplementary funding for two key initiatives: the Rural Accessibility Project ($78 million) and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project ($30 million). This financial boost aims to facilitate the achievement of project goals, specifically enhancing access to vital services such as healthcare and education, as well as markets and employment opportunities, while also bolstering resilience against natural disasters within the province.

Najy Benhassine, the World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, stated that these projects are improving access to essential services and fostering climate and economic resilience. They are also creating job opportunities for local communities by rehabilitating critical rural road infrastructure and enhancing disaster preparedness.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Accessibility Project (KPRAP)

The $78 million in additional funding for KPRAP will focus on delivering secure and climate-resilient road infrastructure. This will be achieved through the upgrading and rehabilitation of rural roads, thereby enhancing access to essential services like schools, healthcare facilities, and marketplaces. The project also aims to support safe and affordable transportation to schools for girls. Approximately 1.76 million individuals are expected to reap the benefits of this project.

Muhammad Bilal Paracha, the Task Team Leader for the project, highlighted the World Bank’s dedication to supporting Pakistan’s and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province’s development objectives. He emphasized the project’s importance in improving the lives of people in the province, particularly women and girls, by improving access to essential services and economic opportunities.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE)

The $30 million in additional financing for KITE will support the province’s tourism sector by completing the rehabilitation of two roads, improving access to tourist destinations. It will also facilitate technical assistance and capacity building for the tourism industry and public sector stakeholders. The additional funding will support destination management, heritage preservation, and the integration of digital platforms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tourism industry.

Kiran Afzal, the Task Team Leader for the project, noted that the KITE project is promoting responsible tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders.

This encompasses improved roads, enhanced tourist amenities, and increased opportunities for local communities to benefit from the expanding tourism economy. The project is poised to generate employment, provide training to local residents, and safeguard the nation’s rich cultural legacy.