Islamabad, November 14, 2025 — The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Pakistan Office is proud to announce the successful conclusion of a series of feasibility studies for the project titled “Project for Improving PCRWR Research Infrastructure and Enhancing Integrated Water Resources Management Capacity” The study was conducted by KOICA experts’ team from November 2nd to 14th, 2025.

This landmark initiative, which received approval after three thorough feasibility assessments aligned with the Pak-Korea country partnership strategy, is scheduled for implementation from 2026 through 2032, with an estimated budget exceeding USD 12 million.

Project Cornerstone: Modernization and Real-Time Monitoring

The project’s central focus is the modernization of the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) infrastructure. Specifically, it will establish a state-of-the-art automated groundwater & surface-water monitoring network across Islamabad and the Sindh province.

This advanced system is designed to provide real-time data on groundwater levels and quality. This precise, timely information is essential for sustainable water resource planning and effective climate adaptation strategies, equipping policymakers, water managers, and other stakeholders with critical insights.

Capacity Building and Academic Collaboration

Beyond infrastructure development, the project places strong emphasis on human capital development. PCRWR professionals will receive specialized training in advanced groundwater and water quality modeling techniques, empowering them with cutting-edge scientific tools.

Furthermore, KOICA has committed to awarding four prestigious postgraduate scholarships—two PhD and two Master’s degrees—at top Korean universities. This commitment aims to foster international academic collaboration and innovation in water research.

Stakeholder Engagement

During the feasibility phase, the Korean delegation engaged in extensive consultation meetings with critical stakeholders, including the the Capital Development Authority (CDA), Karachi Water & Sewerage Company (KW&SC), Public Health Engineering Department Sindh (PHED Sindh), Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA).

These consultations ensured the refinement of technical plans and the finalization of field implementation sites, guaranteeing alignment with local needs and priorities. This initiative highlights the Government of Pakistan’s and PCRWR’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to enhancing water research, monitoring, and sustainable management amid climate change challenges. It also reflects KOICA’s confidence in PCRWR’s technical excellence and capacity to drive transformative changes in Pakistan’s water governance landscape.

KOICA Pakistan reaffirms its dedication to supporting sustainable development goals and advancing climate resilience in Pakistan’s water sector through innovation, partnership, and capacity building.