Sindh Flood Housing Programme Hailed as Potential Global Model
UrduPoint
Published November 03, 2026 | 09:35 PM
World Bank, Asian Development Bank and European Union representatives praised the Sindh Flood Housing Programme’s scale and inclusive approach, while officials noted that its target of approximately 2.1 million homes remained to be achieved.
Water Security, Hydro-Diplomacy and Regional Peace
Water experts called for enhanced regional cooperation between Pakistan and India to address water security challenges, promote hydro-diplomacy, and prevent tensions. They emphasised:
- Respect for international agreements is crucial for lasting peace in South Asia.
- Effective water governance is essential for peace and development.
- Pakistan should continue pursuing its rights under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) through bilateral and international forums while strengthening domestic water management and conservation.
Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) Chair Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel described water as an existential issue and a fundamental necessity for life. He highlighted the Indus Waters Treaty as a landmark agreement that prevented conflict and contributed to international water law.
Former Federal Flood Commission Chairman Ahmed Kamal cautioned against treating the treaty as historical, especially as India pursues water-related projects. He mentioned eight ongoing Indian projects, including one with ongoing civil works.
National Defence University academic Dr Shaheen Akhtar noted that regional cooperation holds significant potential for strengthening water security, but strained relations and the suspension of SAARC activities have hindered collective action.
She emphasised the Indus Waters Treaty as a robust framework for water-sharing, containing detailed provisions for both countries and technical requirements for run-of-the-river projects.
Global development leader Nabeel Goheer highlighted the water dispute’s far-reaching implications, affecting economic development, human welfare, climate change, and bilateral relations.
SPHF: The World’s Largest Post-Disaster Housing Reconstruction Programme
World Bank Country Director for Pakistan Bolormaa Amgaabazar praised the Sindh People’s Housing for Flood Affectees (SPHF) programme, describing the construction of one million houses within a few years as an unprecedented achievement. She expressed optimism that the programme would reach its target of 2.1 million homes.