- Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi Inaugurates Japan-Funded Link Road in Village Numbal Under USD 64,528 Grassroots Assistance Project
ISLAMABAD, 27 October 2026: The Government of Japan has further strengthened its commitment to Pakistan’s grassroots development by supporting the construction of a vital link road in Village Numbal, Tehsil Murree, Punjab, improving safe access to education, healthcare and local markets for thousands of residents.
His Excellency Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, attended the inauguration ceremony of the “Project for the Improvement of the Link Road in Village Numbal, Tehsil Murree, Punjab,” on 26 October 2026. The project was implemented by Al Mezan Islamic Model School, an organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities through education, capacity building and inclusive social development.
Under the Government of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Programme, Japan provided USD 64,528 in financial assistance for the initiative.
Japan’s Grassroots Assistance Improves Community Infrastructure
The project addresses longstanding transportation challenges in Village Numbal, where inadequate road infrastructure and flood-prone pathways had made daily travel difficult and dangerous, particularly during emergencies and periods of adverse weather.
The completed project features a durable concrete link road and protective culverts over local water channels, replacing vulnerable dirt paths with safer and more reliable infrastructure designed to withstand challenging weather conditions.
The improved road is expected to enhance mobility, strengthen community resilience and facilitate safer access to essential services for local residents.
More Than 500 Students to Benefit from Safer School Access
One of the project’s most significant achievements is the improvement of safe access to education. The newly constructed road enables more than 500 students to travel to school without having to cross flood-prone stream beds, reducing the risks associated with their daily journeys.
The project will also directly benefit approximately 2,540 local residents by improving access to healthcare facilities, markets and other essential services.
By addressing critical infrastructure gaps, the initiative is expected to make everyday travel safer and more convenient while supporting educational opportunities and the broader socioeconomic development of the community.
Strong Community Participation Strengthens Project Ownership
The successful completion of the project reflects a strong partnership between Japan, the implementing organisation and local residents.
Numbal, Tehsil Murree, Punjab” Funded by the Government of Japan
In addition to Japan’s financial contribution, Al Mezan Islamic Model School and community members provided supplementary resources, including land valued at PKR 4.5 million, technical supervision and locally sourced stone materials.
This contribution demonstrates the community’s commitment to sustainable development and highlights the importance of local participation in delivering infrastructure projects that respond to the needs of vulnerable populations.
Japanese Ambassador Highlights Education and Sustainable Development
Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi congratulated Al Mezan Islamic Model School on completing the project despite the challenges posed by difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions.
He emphasised that safe and reliable basic infrastructure plays a vital role in improving living standards and promoting sustainable development. Highlighting the importance of education, the ambassador noted that safe roads leading to schools help ensure that every child has the opportunity to pursue learning and build a better future.
His remarks underscored Japan’s commitment to supporting practical, community-focused initiatives that improve daily life and provide tangible benefits to people at the grassroots level.
Japan Reaffirms Commitment to Pakistan’s Sustainable Development
Ambassador Akamatsu reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to supporting Pakistan’s sustainable development and expressed hope that the newly improved road would serve as a lasting symbol of the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Japan and Pakistan.
The project reflects the importance of Japan’s GGP Programme in addressing local development needs through targeted assistance, community participation and practical infrastructure improvements.
By facilitating safer journeys to school and improving access to essential services, the Village Numbal link road represents a meaningful investment in community welfare, educational opportunity and stronger Pakistan–Japan relations.
BY: The Times Union
