The Asian Development Bank has approved an additional 48 million dollars for the Balochistan Water Resources Development Sector Project, strengthening efforts to improve water management and irrigation efficiency in the province. The project supports sustainable development in the Zhob and Mula river basins, two of Balochistan’s most water stressed regions.
Earlier in September, the Central Development Working Party endorsed the 49.9 billion rupee initiative, which is financed through an ADB loan of 148 million dollars, an ADB grant of 5 million dollars, and a government share of 34.37 million dollars. The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council has also approved the project, further clearing the way for its expansion.
According to the ADB press release, the newly approved financing will help complete key components that faced delays due to limited budget allocations. These include the Churi Infiltration Gallery subproject, development of the Siri Toi Dam command area, and watershed management activities that protect land and control flood damage. The bank noted that these components are essential for improving irrigation efficiency and supporting climate resilient agriculture.
An advanced piped water distribution system will be introduced in the Siri Toi command area to reduce water losses and deliver more reliable service compared to traditional open channel methods. Once completed, the Siri Toi Dam will provide a storage capacity of 36 million cubic metres, ensuring consistent water availability for domestic and agricultural use across 16,592 hectares, including land previously dependent on rainwater harvesting.
The project also integrates sustainability measures such as afforestation, soil conservation and construction of check dams to reduce erosion and enhance flood management. These steps are designed to protect the dam’s catchment area and strengthen long term water security for local communities.
ADB emphasised that Balochistan faces severe water shortages worsened by climate change and economic pressures. With agriculture employing 60 percent of the province’s population, the project aims to secure livelihoods and improve economic opportunities, particularly for women engaged in farming. The initiative is cofinanced by the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific and the High Level Technology Fund.
