The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to enhance climate- and disaster-resilient sewerage and drainage infrastructure in Kolkata, aiming to improve the city’s livability and public health.
This initiative is part of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Sustainability, Hygiene, and Resilience (Sector) Project and seeks to improve living conditions, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women and children. By reducing exposure to waterborne and vector-borne diseases and addressing flood risks, the project will contribute to a healthier and more sustainable urban environment.
Kolkata, one of India’s most densely populated cities, struggles with inadequate drainage and sewerage systems, leading to frequent urban flooding and unsanitary conditions. These issues are further exacerbated by climate change, which has increased the frequency and intensity of heavy rains.
Infrastructure Improvements and Key Project Components
To address these challenges, the project will develop critical infrastructure, including:
✅ 84 kilometers of combined trunk and secondary sewerage and drainage pipelines.
✅ 176 kilometers of combined lateral sewerage and drainage pipelines up to customer connections.
✅ 50,000 household sewer connections to improve sanitation access.
✅ One sewage treatment plant and five pumping stations to enhance wastewater management.
The project is expected to benefit over 277,000 residents, reducing flooding risks and improving hygiene standards across the city.
Additionally, the project will strengthen urban governance and service delivery by:
✔ Developing an IT-based asset management system for better infrastructure monitoring.
✔ Enhancing property tax revenue collection to improve financial sustainability.
✔ Expanding the early flood warning system, initially developed under a previous ADB intervention.
✔ Raising community awareness on water, sanitation, and hygiene.
✔ Supporting women’s employment through skills training and internship programs.
Building on a 25-Year Partnership
“The project builds on ADB’s 25-year collaboration with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), which has focused on phased, integrated investments to improve urban services, operational efficiency, institutional effectiveness, and long-term sustainability,” said Hikaru Shoji, Head of ADB’s Water and Urban Development Portfolio Management Unit.
“As the next phase of our urban development efforts in Kolkata, this initiative builds on previous projects to expand sewerage and drainage infrastructure, enhance hygiene conditions, and strengthen KMC’s governance and revenue generation,” Shoji added.
About ADB
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank dedicated to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Through strategic partnerships and innovative financial tools, ADB works with its members to develop high-quality infrastructure and tackle complex development challenges. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members, including 49 from the region.