ADB funds USD 320m project to improve KP’s rural road connectivity

Islamabad, September 16, 2025: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $320 million project to improve connectivity in rural areas of Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa. The project will upgrade almost 900 kilometres of roads in rural areas affected by floods or in bad condition.

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The Rural Community in KP is Struggling for Basic Facilities

KP is also struggling with health facilities. According to a geospatial analysis, almost 40% of the population in rural areas travels 60 minutes to seek medical assistance. Similarly, the rural population has to travel 30 minutes to access any primary, middle, or secondary school.

The project will enhance connectivity to make the recreational facilities accessible for rural residents. Moreover, measures will be taken to incorporate climate-resilient and sustainable designs.

The ADB Director General for Central and West Asia, Mr Yevgeniy Zhukov, said, “Road transport is both a lifeline to the people and a key component of socioeconomic development in the country. This vital infrastructure project will reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and increase access to economic opportunities for millions of people in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. By providing better access to markets and services, we empower local communities and drive inclusive economic growth in one of Pakistan’s most underserved regions.”

The province experienced floods from 2010-2022 caused by monsoon rains and glacial melts. These floods resulted in further damaging the road infrastructure. The rural community fall way behind in accessing educational and health facilities.

The ADB Senior Transport Specialist, Seunghyun Kim, stated, “The ADB will help the government conduct a comprehensive study on flood susceptibility, focusing on landslide vulnerability across the province, to identify priority roads. We will support the government in preparing concessional contracts for the operation and maintenance of two tourism roads, which will contribute to the sustainability of the road network.”

The residents hope this project will bring prosperity to the rural areas of KP and provide convenience to residents. Stay connected with RBS for more updates.