MANILA, Nov. 25 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Tuesday said it has approved a 400 million U.S. dollar results-based lending (RBL) program to help the Indian state of Maharashtra build climate-resilient, low-carbon, safe, and inclusive road networks.

According to the ADB, the project will enhance all-weather road connectivity in 34 districts, particularly in the climate-vulnerable and economically lagging Marathwada and Vidarbha regions.

Over 1.7 million people living within walking distance of improved roads will benefit, including residents of at least 80 villages and around 410 rural communities. These upgrades cover nearly 350 km of state highways and 2,577 km of rural roads.

The bank added the program will strengthen road safety management, including safer road designs and treatments, as well as school and village gateway improvements, while building institutional capacity and training at least 120 engineers in road safety.

Under the RBL approach, ADB funds will be released as specific targets are met, ensuring accountability for project implementation and on-the-ground results. ■