Sindh govt teams up with ADB to build 250,000 houses for flood victims

WEB DESK: In a significant development, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah engaged in fruitful discussions with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation, led by Hong Soo Lee.

The primary focus of their deliberations was the construction of an additional 250,000 houses to aid those affected by recent floods.

Both parties have expressed their commitment to negotiating the terms and conditions for a substantial $400 million project aimed at providing much-needed shelter.

The high-profile meeting, attended by Chief Secretary Dr. Fakhre Alam, Secretary to CM Raheem Shaikh, Chairman P&D Board Shakil Mangnejo, Secretary Finance Kazim Jatoi, and CEO SPHF Khalid Shaikh, marked a crucial step towards addressing the housing needs of flood-affected communities.

The ADB delegation, comprising Head of Water Resources and Emergency Assistance Mian Shaukat, Economist Jules Hugot, Project Analyst Ms. Rabia, and other experts, brought valuable insights to the table.

Chief Minister Shah underscored the urgency of securing funding for the construction of 250,000 houses, emphasising the requirement of $400 million for the housing project and an additional $100 million for community infrastructure development.

Shah outlined ambitious plans, including the establishment of external sewerage systems with soaked pits and septic tanks, the provision of drinking water facilities, drainage systems, solar units, and washrooms for the newly constructed houses.

Providing an update on progress, CEO SPHF Khalid Shaikh mentioned that out of the targeted 1 million houses, 100,000 have already been constructed, with ongoing work on the remaining units.

Chief Minister Shah highlighted that the commitment to low-cost housing, as outlined in Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s election manifesto, extends beyond flood-affected areas.

The government is actively seeking additional donors to contribute to the construction of houses for the economically disadvantaged.

The meeting concluded with a strategic decision to expedite the paperwork required for the $400 million project, focusing on the construction of 250,000 houses.

The goal is to present the comprehensive proposal at the upcoming ADB Board meeting, showcasing the collaborative efforts to address the pressing housing needs in Sindh.

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