OGDC (Oil & Gas Development Company Limited) has partnered with Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) to develop the #OGDCModelVillage in Sohbatpur, Balochistan. This project, sparked by the devastating 2022 floods, aims to rebuild stronger, safer, and more sustainable lives for low-income families impacted by the disaster.
With a total investment of Rs 200 million, OGDC and SPO will build 100 disaster-resilient, solar-powered homes, supporting long-term recovery and resilience in a climate-sensitive region.
What Makes This Model Village Special
The Model Village is built around sustainability, community, and empowerment. Key features include:
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Solar-powered homes designed to withstand future climate shocks and ensure reliable, clean energy.
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Bore-hole water systems to provide continuous access to clean water even during dry seasons.
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A community hall that doubles as a space for gathering, local activities, training, and recovery efforts.
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A mosque and children’s play area to support social cohesion, emotional recovery, and well-being.Empowering Local Economy through Construction & Employment
A key principle of the project is utilizing local labor and resources. By hiring from within the community and sourcing materials locally, the initiative not only accelerates recovery but simultaneously generates income for residents, stimulating long-term economic growth and resilience.
This also helps rebuild trust, restore dignity, and equip the region with skills and infrastructure for future development.
Mr. Ahmed Hayat Lak, MD/CEO of OGDC, underlines the project’s deeper purpose:
“This project reflects OGDC’s vision to promote climate-smart infrastructure and renewable energy solutions. We’re committed to sustainable development and humanitarian responsibility, turning tragedy into a foundation for renewal.”
Through this mission, OGDC not only addresses immediate housing needs, but also pushes forward renewable, inclusive, and resilient development in a region vulnerable to climate and disaster risks.
Fair & Transparent Selection for Impacted Families
To ensure that aid reaches those who need it most, OGDC and SPO have established a transparent beneficiary selection process. This mechanism aims to distribute resources equitably, regain stability, and restore security and dignity to the families worst affected by the floods.
Why the Model Village Matters (and What It Means for the Region)
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Disaster resilience: Building solar-powered and climate-adapted homes makes the community less vulnerable to future natural disasters.
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Sustainable energy adoption: This initiative contributes to Pakistan’s shift toward renewables, especially in underserved rural areas.
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Community rebuilding: Beyond houses, the project supports social cohesion through shared spaces, infrastructure, and employment.
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Economic uplift: Jobs and income for locals help reduce poverty and stimulate regional growth.
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Model for replication: This village sets a benchmark for humanitarian and climate-smart infrastructure projects, potentially inspiring similar efforts elsewhere in Pakistan.
