Inauguration of Japan-Assisted Link Road Marks Major Milestone for Rural Development

Islamabad | April 9, 2025

Posted by: Watts News, the Largest English Digital News Network Pakistan

On Monday, April 7, 2025, His Excellency, Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, inaugurated a project for the pavement of a link road in the village of Jhandwal, Shinkiari, District Mansehra. The project was implemented by Saibaan Development Organization, a non-governmental organization working to eliminate social disparities in rural areas of Pakistan.

The Government of Japan, through its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program, provided financial support of USD 56,418 for the construction of a 3,800-foot-long link road. The project also included retaining walls and culverts to ensure long-term sustainability. The inauguration ceremony was attended by federal and local government officials, NGO board members, and community leaders, including Mr. Sardar Shah Jahan Yousaf, Parliamentary Leader and Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) KP.

Saibaan Development Organization, with over two decades of experience in rural development, collaborated with government departments and donors to implement this initiative. The newly paved road is expected to ease travel for over 2,700 residents and provide a safe and reliable route for 330 school-going children. It also improves accessibility to healthcare centers and local markets.

Ambassador Akamatsu praised the NGO for the successful implementation of the project, stating that “the pavement of the link road is not just about building a road—it opens up access to opportunities, connects communities to vital services and creates an environment for further growth.” He reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to supporting the people of Pakistan in enhancing their living conditions and expressed hope that such projects will deepen the friendship between both nations.

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Japan in Pakistan, Shinkiari Development, Saibaan Organization, GGP Program Japan, Road Inauguration Mansehra, Watts News