The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed agreements to provide $299.6 million (approximately Tk 3,629 crore) in loans and grants to Bangladesh for three major development projects. The funding will be allocated to improve access to safe drinking water in Khulna, modernize the power distribution network in the northwest, and enhance the living conditions of displaced Rohingya communities.

The agreements were signed on Monday by Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division, and Edimon Ginting, ADB Country Director for Bangladesh.

Under the deal, ADB will provide a $150 million loan and a $4 million grant to ensure safe and sustainable drinking water supply for Khulna city, particularly targeting underserved communities. The initiative aims to address groundwater salinity and incorporate smart water supply systems, benefiting approximately 17.8 million people and ensuring water demand is met through 2050.

To improve electricity access and reliability, especially in remote areas of Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions, ADB will provide a $91 million loan. This project includes the installation of smart grid technologies and solar backup systems, along with support for electricity-based livelihood opportunities for women and marginalized communities.

In addition, ADB has pledged a $58.6 million grant to improve living conditions and social cohesion for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Cox’s Bazar. The grant will strengthen ongoing emergency support operations that ADB has been conducting in the region since 2018.

ADB Country Director Edimon Ginting said the support reflects ADB’s continued commitment to inclusive development and resilience building in Bangladesh, particularly for vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure.