The Board of Executive Directors at the World Bank approved a funding package of $149.7 million on Saturday. This funding is designated for two main projects: the Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP) and the Sindh Barrages Improvement Project (SBIP).
DEEP, valued at $78 million, aims to transform public service delivery through digital platforms, enhancing connectivity and efficiency for citizens and businesses. It includes regulatory reforms, personal data protection, and online safety measures to create a secure digital environment.
Najy Benhassine, the World Bank’s Country Director for Pakistan, highlighted DEEP’s potential to drive economic and social development by expanding access to government and financial services, particularly for women, and promoting financial inclusion through smartphone applications.
The remaining $71.7 million is allocated to SBIP, focusing on strengthening infrastructure resilience against floods in Sindh province. This includes rehabilitating key barrages like Guddu and Sukkur to manage floodwaters effectively. Benhassine stressed the importance of safe barrages in building climate resilience, emphasizing SBIP’s role in disaster mitigation.
SBIP funding will also support capacity-building in barrage management units, encourage women’s involvement in emergency preparedness, and prioritize citizen engagement and stakeholder participation.
