The World Bank has approved $108 million in additional financing to support rural road development and promote tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The funding aims to enhance access to essential services, strengthen resilience to natural disasters, and stimulate local economic growth through tourism.
Of the total amount, $78 million has been allocated to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Accessibility Project (KPRAP). This project focuses on repairing and upgrading rural roads to improve connectivity across the province. Approximately 1.76 million people are expected to benefit from safer and more efficient access to schools, hospitals, and markets. A particular emphasis is being placed on improving transportation for girls, making school travel safer and more affordable.
“This project is crucial for improving the lives of people in the province, particularly women and girls, by enhancing access to essential services and economic opportunities,” said Muhammad Bilal Paracha, Task Team Leader for KPRAP. “The road upgrades will not only improve connectivity but also strengthen climate resilience across the region.”
The remaining $30 million will support the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE). These funds will be used to upgrade access roads to key tourist destinations, enhance visitor facilities, and help preserve cultural and heritage sites.
“The KITE project promotes responsible tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by engaging both public and private sector stakeholders,” said Kiran Afzal, Task Team Leader for KITE. “By improving infrastructure and tourist amenities, we are enabling local communities to benefit from the growing tourism economy.”
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Najy Benhassine, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, highlighted the broader impact of the investment: “These projects are not just about improving infrastructure. They are about fostering climate resilience, expanding access to services, creating jobs, and ultimately improving the lives of millions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”
