Pakistan has formalised three key agreements with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to accelerate major infrastructure initiatives in the transport and water resource sectors. The Ministry of Economic Affairs confirmed the development on Friday, describing the financing as a strategic boost to Pakistan’s ongoing development agenda.

The agreements outline support for preparing the ML-1 Karachi to Rohri railway section, a crucial part of the country’s north–south transport corridor. The project readiness financing is expected to advance the detailed planning, engineering designs and procurement framework needed to initiate future construction works on the route.

Officials noted that the Karachi–Rohri section is a high-traffic segment that plays a central role in freight movement. Upgrades to the corridor are anticipated to reduce travel time, improve safety and scale up inter-regional connectivity, contributing to both commercial activity and passenger mobility.

Another major component of the agreement focuses on the Quetta Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. The financing will support initial technical groundwork, environmental assessments and operational planning needed to launch the project. Authorities believe the initiative will help ease congestion in Quetta, where rapid urbanisation has increasingly pressured the city’s public transport infrastructure.

A third agreement, finalised between both sides, provides additional financing for the Balochistan Water Resources Development Sector Project. The funding aims to expand water supply infrastructure, improve irrigation systems and strengthen climate resilience in drought-prone regions of the province.

The Secretary of Economic Affairs signed the documents on behalf of Pakistan, while ADB Country Director Emma Fenn signed for the bank. Representatives from Pakistan’s railways and water development departments were also present at the signing.

During the ceremony, Pakistan expressed appreciation for ADB’s continued engagement and support in addressing infrastructure deficits. The Secretary of Economic Affairs said that these projects reflect national priorities and will have a long-term impact on economic and social development.

ADB Country Director Emma Fenn praised Pakistan’s commitment to advancing large-scale infrastructure initiatives. She reaffirmed that the bank remains committed to supporting development programmes that meet national needs and improve living standards across the country.

The agreements come at a time when Pakistan is seeking to expand investment in infrastructure while balancing fiscal challenges. Government officials view external development partnerships as critical to sustaining modernization efforts, particularly in regions facing historical service gaps.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs stated that implementation planning will begin immediately, with detailed timelines to be shared once technical preparation milestones are completed.