World Bank Approves Second Grant for Tajikistan's Rogun Dam, Project Viability Restored

The World Bank approved a $300 million grant for Tajikistan's Rogun Dam in June, following a $350 million grant in December 2024, and Italian contractor WeBuild began work on the $2.3 billion project in August. This second tranche of funding signals renewed international confidence in the project, reversing doubts from mid-2025. The dam is critical for Tajikistan's energy independence and regional water management, with implications for downstream Uzbekistan's water supply.