Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met with a World Bank delegation led by Regional Vice President Ousmane Dino to review collaborative projects worth $4.012 billion. The discussions focused on education, health, urban infrastructure, and post-flood recovery. CM Shah praised WB’s support during the 2022 floods but urged faster procurement processes and additional funds for Karachi’s mobility and water initiatives.
Key Projects & Challenges
The CM highlighted delays in the Karachi Urban Mobility Project (KUMP), which requires $170 million more than WB’s pledged $86 million. He also sought early approval for the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP-II) and a one-year extension for the SELECT education program to complete school renovations. Concerns were raised about staffing gaps in WB’s Karachi office affecting project timelines.
Flood Recovery Progress
Shah detailed Sindh’s housing scheme for flood victims, confirming 600,000 homes rebuilt and 1.3 million bank accounts opened for direct aid. Over 300,000 women have received land ownership certificates, aligning with the province’s empowerment goals. The WB-backed social protection program will now expand to seven more districts.
Commitment to Transparency
The CM reaffirmed Sindh’s focus on institutional capacity and transparency, urging WB to maintain timely decisions. He termed the housing initiative “Pakistan’s largest welfare effort,” creating 1 million jobs while restoring livelihoods. Both sides agreed to strengthen partnerships for sustainable development in Sindh.