Japan-funded eye care facility opens in Havelian

Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi on Tuesday, 23 December 2025, inaugurated a project for the construction of an eyecare facility in Tehsil Havelian, Abbottabad.

The project was implemented by Lok Sudhar Association, a non-governmental organisation working to improve essential eyecare services for underserved communities in Havelian. The Government of Japan, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program, had provided financial assistance of 51,407 USD which was allocated in 2024 for the construction of an eyecare facility and provision of advanced ophthalmology equipment used in the diagnosis of different ophthalmic diseases and cataract surgeries.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Japanese Embassy officials, NGO board members and local community representatives.

Lok Sudhar Association, with more than 25 years of experience in community uplift and social sector initiatives, has worked collaboratively with various donors to deliver impactful projects. This project funded by the Government of Japan, improved the quality of eyecare services in Havelian, especially by enabling to access cataract surgery for the first time in this region.

This initiative responds to the pressing medical needs of over 350,000 people in Tehsil Havelian and adjoining areas. After the completion of the project, almost 30,000 patients have undergone treatment, and 1,260 cataract surgeries were operated in this facility in one year.