Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Friday signed agreements totalling $61.8 million to support three major development projects in connectivity, urban transport, and water management.

The agreements cover $10 million for Project Readiness Financing of the Karachi-Rohri section of Main Line-I, $3.8 million for the Quetta Bus Rapid Transit system, and $48 million for additional financing for the Balochistan Water Resources Development Sector Project.

Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs, praised ADB as a trusted development partner and highlighted its support for projects that will strengthen long-term economic growth, address critical urban infrastructure needs in Quetta, and boost agricultural productivity in Balochistan.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Railways and the Balochistan government and urged timely and effective utilisation of the financing to ensure successful project implementation.

ADB Country Director Emma Fan welcomed the agreements, emphasising the significance of the Balochistan initiatives and calling the ML-I Project Readiness Financing a critical step towards modernising Pakistan’s railways.

She reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to working closely with the government to align support with the country’s development priorities.