World Bank approves $240M for Karachi’s Water and Sanitation Upgrades

The World Bank has approved a massive $240 million initiative to enhance Karachi’s water and sanitation services under the Second Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP-2).

The program, designed to improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation, particularly in underserved areas, aims to transform Karachi’s urban landscape. It will also address pressing public health concerns and reduce reliance on alternative water sources.

A Comprehensive Approach
The project’s blueprint includes:

• Expansion of bulk water and wastewater treatment systems.
• Rehabilitation of aging sewer networks.
• Provision of water and sanitation services for 16 million residents, including 7.5 million in low-income neighborhoods.

Gender inclusivity is central to KWSSIP-2, with specific plans to:

• Boost female representation in technical and leadership roles at the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC).
• Provide internships and training for women, enabling pathways to sustainable employment.

KWSSIP-2 will be co-financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), contributing an additional $240 million, while the Pakistani government is committing $250 million. Private-sector partnerships are expected to raise another $269 million to support the initiative.

Set to complete by 2030, the project will cut water collection times, curb waterborne illnesses, and improve the financial sustainability of Karachi’s water utility. Task Team Leader Khairy Al-Jamal noted that the initiative will not only improve infrastructure but also foster private-sector participation and gender equity.

This initiative is part of the World Bank’s broader goal to deliver safe water and sanitation services to 100 million people in South Asia by 2035, solidifying Karachi’s position as a model for urban water management in the region.