ADB Sanctions $200 Million Loan to Strengthen Kolkata’s Urban Infrastructure
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200-million loan to support the development of climate- and disaster-resilient sewerage and drainage infrastructure in Kolkata. The initiative aims to improve urban services and address long-standing issues related to inadequate drainage and sewerage systems.
The project is part of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Sustainability, Hygiene, and Resilience (Sector) Project. It seeks to enhance living conditions and public health, particularly benefiting vulnerable populations, including women and children. Kolkata, one of India's most populous cities, faces significant urban challenges due to poor drainage infrastructure, which has contributed to frequent urban flooding and unsanitary conditions.
The project includes the construction of 84 kilometers of combined trunk and secondary sewerage and drainage pipelines, along with 176 kilometers of lateral sewerage and drainage pipelines extending up to customer connections. Additionally, 50,000 new household sewer connections will be established to provide direct benefits to approximately 277,000 residents.
As part of the initiative, a new sewage treatment plant and five pumping stations will be built to improve the city’s capacity to manage wastewater and prevent waterlogging. The infrastructure enhancements are designed to withstand climate change impacts, including increasing instances of heavy rainfall.
Kolkata has been facing growing concerns over its drainage system, which struggles to cope with the pressures of rapid urbanization and extreme weather events. The ADB-funded project aims to modernize the system and reduce health risks associated with water stagnation and contamination.
This investment aligns with broader urban development goals focused on sustainability and resilience. By implementing improved sewerage and drainage facilities, the project will contribute to better sanitation, reduced flooding, and enhanced overall urban infrastructure.
In addition to infrastructure development, the project will support capacity-building initiatives for local authorities to ensure effective implementation and long-term maintenance. It will also promote community awareness on hygiene and proper sanitation practices.
The approval of this loan follows other ADB-backed projects aimed at improving urban infrastructure across India. For instance, ADB recently approved a $500 million loan for sustainable infrastructure development in the country and a $98 million agreement to boost horticulture productivity.
Through this initiative, Kolkata is expected to witness significant improvements in urban service delivery, ultimately leading to a cleaner and more resilient urban environment. The implementation of modern sewerage and drainage systems will be a critical step toward addressing the city’s long-standing infrastructure deficiencies.
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