ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to benefit from technical assistance approved by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) aimed at supporting member countries in systematically shaping future sustainable transport investments. The initiative will provide upstream diagnostic assessments, strengthen infrastructure governance, and explore advanced technical solutions and financing strategies, including private sector participation.
The ADB program seeks to enhance technical and institutional capacity while promoting climate-resilient transport systems, digital transformation, low-carbon and circular economy solutions, road safety, and inclusive growth. According to an ADB report, annual transport investment requirements from 2020 to 2035 are estimated at $2.9 trillion, including $2 trillion for new construction, $0.7 trillion for maintenance, and $0.2 trillion for climate-proofing. Despite $14.6 billion in sovereign transport lending during 2020–2024, financing levels remain far below what is needed to meet demand and support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The report highlights the growing pressure on construction materials, noting that road construction alone consumes 30 to 40 percent of global demand, with Asia’s demand rising 64 percent over the past decade—well above the global average of 17 percent. To reduce environmental impacts and improve long-term sustainability, ADB recommends climate-smart and circular economy approaches, including the use of low-carbon and recycled materials, reuse of construction and other waste, longer asset lifespans, and innovative construction methods.
The technical assistance will also foster innovation and regional cooperation through knowledge platforms and harmonized approaches, while expanding the application of the ADB Green Roads Toolkit to additional developing member countries. The program builds on ongoing support in other ADB member nations, providing a framework for sustainable transport planning and execution.
Quality transport infrastructure is critical for economic growth, regional integration, and inclusive development. However, ADB member countries, including Pakistan, face widening infrastructure gaps driven by rapid urbanization, growing economic activity, aging transport networks, and increased climate and disaster resilience requirements.
By adopting climate-smart, low-carbon, and circular economy solutions, Pakistan is expected to enhance the sustainability of its transport sector, reduce environmental impacts, and improve long-term operational efficiency while meeting the country’s economic and development objectives.
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