World Bank Conducts Mid-Term Review Mission of KPEC Project in Peshawar
Peshawar, March 31, 2026 — A high-level mission of the World Bank led by the Mr. Hasan Zaidi (Senior Transport Specialist & Task Team Leader) visited Peshawar as part of the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the Khyber Pass Economic Corridor (KPEC) Project, a flagship initiative aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, cross-border trade, and economic development along the Peshawar–Torkham corridor.
During the visit, the World Bank Task Team held a comprehensive progress review session with the KPEC Project Management Unit (PMU), P&D Department Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Component. The review focused on the implementation status of Component II, which encompasses spatial master planning, feasibility studies for key economic infrastructure, enterprise development initiatives, and institutional strengthening.
The PMU briefed the mission on significant progress achieved to date, including the advancement of the Spatial Master Plan for Western Greater Peshawar, feasibility studies for strategic investments such as the International Bus Terminal, Border Bazar, and economic zones, as well as ongoing initiatives supporting private sector development, skills enhancement, and inclusive business growth.
Later, the World Bank mission called on the Secretary Planning & Development Department for a wrap-up meeting, where a detailed briefing was presented on the implementation progress of Component II. The discussions also covered the World Bank’s proposed restructuring plan for the KPEC Project, aimed at aligning project timelines and interventions with emerging priorities and ensuring effective delivery of development outcomes.
The Mid-Term Review mission, conducted from March 30 to April 3, 2026, is expected to play a critical role in guiding the next phase of the project, strengthening implementation mechanisms, and accelerating progress toward achieving the Project Development Objective of enhancing regional trade and economic integration.
