Manila, The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $250 million loan to enhance Pakistan’s power transmission network, focusing on the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. The Power Transmission Strengthening Project aims to expand and improve the power transmission network, thereby delivering reliable electricity across these regions.

According to Asian Development Bank, the project will reinforce the stability of Pakistan’s national grid by increasing transmission capacity. It involves expanding the high-voltage transmission network to close 500 kilovolt (kV) and 220 kV transmission line loops and reducing transmission losses in Lahore by replacing old lines.

Yevgeniy Zhukov, ADB Director General for Central and West Asia, highlighted the significance of a reliable power supply for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The project aligns with ADB’s ongoing support to the National Transmission & Despatch Company Limited (NTDC) to ensure energy security, climate resilience, and increased transmission capacity for clean and cost-effective energy. Improving Pakistan’s national transmission system management is another critical objective of the project.

ADB’s initiative also includes enhancing NTDC’s project and financial management and its ability to incorporate climate resilience in planning and operations. To promote gender equality in the energy sector, ADB plans to develop mentorship guidelines, conduct awareness campaigns, establish childcare centers, and provide technical training for NTDC’s female staff. The project will also offer livelihood skills development for women and training for local communities on responding to climate-induced natural hazards.

Pakistan, a founding member of ADB since 1966, has received over $52 billion in various forms of financing from ADB to promote economic growth and improve infrastructure, energy, transport networks, and social services. ADB, established in 1966, is committed to a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific.