Murad, World Bank forge partnership for water management reforms

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah convened with a high-powered delegation from the World Bank to deliberate on crucial reforms aimed at bolstering the Karachi Water Board and enhancing the province’s irrigation system.

Led by Water Global Director Saroj Kumar Jha and World Bank Country Director Najy Binhassine, the discussion underscored the pressing need for sustainable water management in the face of severe scarcity, particularly in Sindh.

The meeting, held at the CM House and attended by key officials including Chief Secretary Dr Fakhre Alam and Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, highlighted the imperative of promoting efficient water usage for domestic and agricultural purposes to address the escalating water crisis.

Chief Minister Murad Shah emphasized the significance of Karachi’s water needs and outlined the government’s efforts to implement reforms in collaboration with the World Bank, including the involvement of the private sector to enhance the water board’s efficiency. The World Bank delegation emphasized the necessity for the Karachi Water Board to operate akin to a commercial entity, emphasizing the paramount importance of water management over electricity.

Discussions delved into the challenges of financial sustainability, with comparisons drawn between the water board and K-Electric in terms of revenue recovery. Mayor Karachi, also Chairman of the Water Board, reported an uptick in revenue recovery following reforms, signaling progress in financial stability. Additionally, plans for meter installation to monitor usage were discussed as part of ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency.

Addressing concerns about the deteriorating irrigation system, the CM highlighted the impact of recent floods and reiterated the government’s commitment to collaboration with the World Bank for system improvements. The delegation’s visit to Sukkur Barrage underscored the importance of maintenance and repair as ongoing priorities.

In a collaborative effort, the CM and the World Bank delegation pledged to work closely to improve both the water board and irrigation system, marking a significant step towards sustainable water management in Sindh.