The World Bank has approved a $400 million loan for Pakistan to fund the Punjab Inclusive Cities Program, aiming to improve water, sanitation, and local governance in urban areas.
The project prioritizes child health, flood resilience, and women’s participation in city administration.
The program will provide safe drinking water and improved sanitation across cities in Punjab. The World Bank emphasized that access to clean water is critical for reducing child stunting and preventing water-borne diseases, which will also help lower health costs for families and local governments.
Enhancing local governance
Beyond infrastructure, the loan will support the financial and administrative capacity of municipal governments. This includes strengthening systems for service delivery, better urban planning, and preparing cities to cope with floods, droughts, and other climate-related challenges.
The program includes special measures to promote women in recruitment and decision-making roles. A dedicated complaint desk and a training program for women are part of the initiative, ensuring gender-inclusive participation in municipal governance.
