World Bank Approves $108 Million for Pakistan to Boost Rural Connectivity and Tourism

In a significant development for Pakistan’s infrastructure and economic resilience, the World Bank has approved an additional $108 million in financing. The funding targets key sectors such as rural accessibility in Punjab and integrated tourism development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).

According to a statement from the World Bank, $78 million has been allocated to the Punjab Rural Accessibility Project, which aims to enhance rural road networks, facilitate better access to markets, and open up employment opportunities for underserved populations in Punjab.

The remaining $30 million has been dedicated to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project. This initiative will focus on strengthening climate and natural resilience in the region, while promoting eco-tourism and inclusive, community-led development.

“These investments aim to improve service delivery and enhance economic opportunities, particularly in underserved and vulnerable communities,” the World Bank said in its official statement.

This financial commitment is part of a broader series of engagements between Pakistan and global financial institutions to address development and economic challenges. The Bank emphasized that the projects align with its regional strategy focused on sustainability and climate resilience in South Asia.

Officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Planning welcomed the move, describing it as a “positive step” toward inclusive and balanced national development.