Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Tuesday signed two major climate resilience projects worth $304.5 million, aimed at protecting coastal communities in Sindh and promoting low carbon, climate smart agriculture in Punjab. The initiatives mark a significant step in strengthening Pakistan’s response to climate risks and sustainable development challenges.
The $180.5 million Sindh Coastal Resilience Sector Project focuses on integrated water management, flood risk reduction, and restoration of nature-based coastal defenses. It will also strengthen institutional capacity and community preparedness in vulnerable coastal areas.
The project is financed through $140.5 million from ADB, $40 million from the Green Climate Fund, and $20 million from the Sindh government, and is expected to benefit over 3.8 million people in Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin districts.
Secretary Ministry of Economic Affairs Muhammad Humair Karim said the project would safeguard livelihoods, food security, and biodiversity along Sindh’s climate-exposed coastline, calling ADB a “trusted development partner” in Pakistan’s climate journey.
The Punjab Climate Resilient and Low Carbon Agriculture Mechanization Project, valued at $124 million, aims to modernize farming across 30 districts. The project will improve access to climate-smart machinery for small farmers, promote circular agriculture to reduce crop residue burning, and establish training and testing facilities.
Funded by ADB loans and grants alongside Punjab government support, the initiative will also empower 15,000 women through skills development and diversified livelihoods, supporting inclusive and sustainable rural growth.
ADB Country Director Emma Fan described the project as a critical move toward modernizing agriculture while cutting emissions and boosting resilience to climate shocks.
Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, facing recurring floods, coastal erosion, and agricultural stress. These newly signed initiatives reflect a shared commitment by Pakistan and ADB to deliver long-term, climate-resilient solutions that protect communities, strengthen food systems, and support low carbon growth.