PESHAWAR: A $200 million development project supported by the World Bank has begun delivering initial results in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s merged districts, with early gains reported in service delivery and agriculture support, according to a news report.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Investment and Institutional Support Project, launched in 2023, aims to improve state capacity to provide basic services and climate-resilient infrastructure in underserved areas. The latest Implementation Status and Results Report rates progress toward development objectives as satisfactory, while overall implementation remains moderately satisfactory.
The project covers sectors including water supply, rural roads, agriculture, and institutional development. Around 7,000 people have gained access to climate-resilient public services so far.
In the agriculture sector, more than 61,000 farmers have received support through measures such as rainwater harvesting, off-season vegetable cultivation using walk-in tunnels, and land development based on climate-smart practices.
Large-scale infrastructure work, including water supply systems, irrigation schemes, and road development, is expected to enter full implementation within six months. These activities are being carried out by provincial departments including Public Health Engineering, Local Government, and Irrigation.
However, progress on institutional reforms remains limited. Indicators related to village council capacity, participatory planning, and women’s access to services are still at baseline levels.
The project carries a substantial risk rating due to governance challenges and macroeconomic pressures. Financial disbursement also remains low, with just over $26 million, or about 13% of the total allocation, released to date.
