The Sindh government and the World Bank are accelerating a multi-billion-dollar development portfolio aimed at tackling critical water, health, and housing challenges across the province, officials confirmed following a high-level strategic meeting.
According to CM House information today, the engagement between Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Mr Ousmane Dione, the World Bank Regional Vice President for South Asia, focused on finalising preparations for an upcoming visit by the World Bank President and reviewing significant development initiatives.
‘We are committed to structural reforms that deliver real, measurable impact for our people,’ Chief Minister Shah stated. ‘Our partnership with the World Bank is central to improving water supply, reducing stunting, and expanding social protection so that development benefits reach the most vulnerable communities in Sindh.’
Mr Dione reaffirmed the institution”s long-term commitment, describing Sindh as an “important partner” in Pakistan. ‘We are working together to turn ambitious plans into results on the ground – from safe drinking water in urban and rural areas, to better maternal and child health, and stronger safety nets for poor households,’ he noted.
Both parties emphasised a shared dedication to structural reforms and the effective implementation of the Country Partnership Framework (CPF), which aims for inclusive, resilient, and climate-smart growth.
A key focus of the discussion was the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP). The project”s first phase is reportedly approaching its June 2026 completion, with 77 per cent of IBRD funds already disbursed. A second, more extensive phase valued at $1.2 billion is planned to establish safely managed water services and support the K-IV augmentation works.
‘Karachi’s water and sewerage reforms are not just infrastructure projects; they are about dignity and public health for millions of citizens,’ the chief minister remarked.
Mr Dione added that the World Bank is deploying global best practices to support the provincial government’s vision of a ‘modern, efficient, and financially sustainable water utility’ for one of the world”s largest cities.
Collaboration on rural Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) through the STARS WASH programme was also identified as a top priority to enhance water quality and eliminate open defecation. CM Shah said the initiative is fundamental to the region”s human development agenda and the reduction of preventable diseases.
The World Bank RVP highlighted the high developmental returns on such investments. ‘By working with the Sindh government, we aim to ensure that children can grow up healthier, attend school regularly, and realise their full potential,’ Mr Dione said.
On social protection, the meeting noted that disbursements have risen to $58.31 million, primarily to enhance the Mother and Child Support Programme, which links cash support with health and nutrition services.
The high-level delegations reviewed implementation bottlenecks and explored methods for fast-tracking procurement and disbursements, agreeing on clear timelines and responsibilities for each major project.
Attendees from the Sindh government included the Ministers for Local Government, Pand D, and Irrigation, Jam Khan Shoro, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab. The World Bank team included Country Director Ms Bolormaa Amgaabazar and other senior officials.
‘This is not just about signing agreements; it is about delivery,’ CM Murad Ali Shah concluded, stressing that concrete steps were agreed upon to accelerate implementation.
Mr Dione echoed this sentiment, describing the discussion as very practical and solutions-oriented. He expressed a desire to build on this momentum to ensure every dollar invested translates into better services for the people of Sindh.