By improving the fundamental infrastructure and services, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is helping the Punjabi government create mid-level cities that are sustainable and livable.
This includes, according to an ADB handout, Sialkot — a thriving business hub known for manufacturing footballs and high-quality surgical instruments.
According to the ADB, funding for urban development is enhancing Sialkot’s competitiveness, job prospects, and overall quality of life. Over 70% of the footballs used in the world are produced in the city.
The handout stated, “If you have ever played football, chances are the ball was created in Sialkot, Pakistan.” Additionally, the city provides footballs for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup in Doha.
We have foreign clients, according to Khwaja Masood Akhtar, chairman of Forward Group and Sialkot International Airport Limited (SIAL). They visit for business meetings as well as to see our factory. Therefore, it is crucial that the city’s infrastructure, including its roads, railways, airports, and dry ports, be in good condition.
It was emphasized that the ADB is assisting the growth of places like Sialkot so that public services can keep up with the increased demand.
The statement continued, “With the ADB’s assistance, over 450 tonnes of solid waste are effectively collected every day, and communities are taught better waste management.” It added that “Water infrastructure is being upgraded for reliable supply, while sewerage and sanitation systems are also being rehabilitated.”
A social activist from Sialkot named Farkhanda Ishtiaq remarked, “We learned about solid waste management at home. I gained a lot from it because I learned how to separate my kitchen waste.
With clean restrooms and well-lit walkways, parks, footpaths, and terminals in the city are now easier to access, it continued.
Children used to play in a very crowded environment at home, but now, according to Sialkot resident Rabia Ahad, they are very relaxed.
