Abbottabad (TDI): A new eye care facility funded by Japan has officially opened in Tehsil Havelian of Abbottabad, aiming to improve access to essential ophthalmic services for underserved communities.
The facility was inaugurated on Tuesday by Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Akamatsu Shuichi. The project was carried out by Lok Sudhar Association, a local non-governmental organisation that has been working for decades to strengthen basic healthcare and social services in the region.
The Government of Japan provided financial support amounting to $51,407 under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program. Approved in 2024, the funding was used for the construction of the eye care centre as well as the procurement of modern ophthalmology equipment required for diagnosing eye diseases and performing cataract surgeries.
Officials from the Japanese Embassy, members of the NGO’s board, and representatives of the local community attended the inauguration ceremony.
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With more than 25 years of experience in community development initiatives, Lok Sudhar Association has partnered with multiple donors to deliver sustainable projects. The newly established facility marks a major improvement in eye care services in Havelian, offering cataract surgery locally for the first time.
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The project addresses the healthcare needs of more than 350,000 residents of Tehsil Havelian and surrounding areas. Since becoming operational, the centre has treated nearly 30,000 patients, while 1,260 cataract surgeries have been successfully performed within a year.
