WB approves $240m for Karachi water scheme

The World Bank has approved $240 million for the Second Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP-2), aiming to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in Karachi.

The project is set to provide safe water to nearly 16 million people and improved sanitation services to 7.5 million residents by 2030. Investments will focus on bulk water augmentation, water treatment, wastewater reuse, and sewer network rehabilitation.

Najy Benhassine, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, emphasized the importance of WASH services, calling them the "foundation of public health and quality of life." He said the initiative builds on the first phase of KWSSIP and aims to strengthen Karachi’s water infrastructure.

Over 500,000 residents in informal settlements, including Katchi Abadis, will benefit from safer drinking water and better sanitation. The project is expected to reduce reliance on costly alternative water sources, save time spent collecting water, and improve health by minimizing waterborne diseases.

Additionally, KWSSIP-2 seeks to close gender gaps through inclusive recruitment at the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC).

The project will train women, provide internships, and support career progression to leadership roles.

“This initiative will institutionalize opportunities for women graduates and promote them to higher-grade positions,” said Khairy Al-Jamal, the project’s Task Team Leader.

The project aims to significantly enhance Karachi's WASH infrastructure while fostering gender equity and improving public health.