ISLAMABAD: Japan has agreed to provide a grant of 2.58 billion yens to Pakistan to strengthen the embankments of the Indus River in Sindh, targeting enhanced climate resilience for high-risk communities.

The funding will support the implementation of the Project for Flood Protection and Dike Improvement, aiming to shield vulnerable populations from future riverine disasters.

The bilateral agreement represents an investment of approximately $16.4 million toward rebuilding and reinforcing critical flood infrastructure in the province. The project was formalised through the signing of an exchange of notes and a grant agreement at the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

The partnership focuses on deploying robust infrastructure to prevent future riverine flooding and protect local livelihoods.

Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan in Pakistan, and Secretary Ministry of Economic Affairs Mohammad Humair Karim Kidwai signed the agreement.

The project will focus on the improvement and strengthening of the Old Abad Bund in Larkana along the right bank of the Indus River.

The secretary expressed appreciation to the government and the people of Japan for their continued friendship, generous development assistance and steadfast commitment to Pakistan’s socioeconomic development.

He also acknowledged the longstanding role of the government of Japan as a valued development partner and appreciated JICA’s technical expertise, knowledge and continued engagement with Pakistan across various sectors.

The ambassador assured of the commitment of his government to work closely with the government of Pakistan to further strengthen the friendly ties and bilateral cooperation.

Sugawara Takayuki, senior representative of JICA, appreciated the provincial and federal governments for bringing the project to the signing stage and indicated JICA’s commitment towards strengthening flood protection infrastructure in flood-prone areas of Sindh.

Published in Dawn, September 8th, 2026