ABBOTTABAD, Tuesday, December 23, 2025 (WNP): Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi on Tuesday inaugurated a newly constructed eye care facility in Tehsil Havelian, District Abbottabad, marking a significant boost to specialised healthcare services in the region.

The project was implemented by the Lok Sudhar Association, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to improving access to essential eye care for underserved communities in Havelian.

The Government of Japan provided financial assistance of USD 51,407 under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) programme, allocated in 2024 for the construction of the facility and the procurement of advanced ophthalmic equipment.

The funding supported the installation of modern diagnostic tools and surgical equipment used for the detection and treatment of various eye diseases, including cataract surgeries. The inauguration ceremony was attended by officials from the Japanese Embassy, members of the NGO’s board, and representatives of the local community.

With more than 25 years of experience in community uplift and social sector development, the Lok Sudhar Association has collaborated with multiple donors to deliver high-impact projects. The Japan-funded initiative has significantly improved the quality and availability of eye care services in Havelian, enabling access to cataract surgery for the first time in the area.

The facility addresses the critical medical needs of more than 350,000 people in Tehsil Havelian and surrounding localities. Since the completion of the project, nearly 30,000 patients have received treatment at the centre, while 1,260 cataract surgeries have been successfully performed within a year.

The facility has substantially reduced the financial and physical burden on elderly and vulnerable patients who previously faced delays and hardships in accessing timely care.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu congratulated the Lok Sudhar Association on the successful completion of the project and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s healthcare sector. He said that providing affordable health facilities remains a key priority of Japan’s assistance policy towards Pakistan.

The ambassador also underscored that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental prerequisite for social development and prosperity. Reiterating Japan’s continued support for the people of Pakistan, he expressed hope that the project would further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.