Islamabad: In a move aimed at enhancing water management in Faisalabad, Pakistan and Japan have entered into an agreement for the installation of smart water meters. The initiative, supported by a grant of JPY 510 million (approximately US$ 3.50 million) from Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is expected to improve water supply efficiency and conservation in the city.

The signing ceremony for the Grant Agreement, Exchange of Notes, and Record of Discussion took place at the Ministry of Economic Affairs. The project involves the installation of approximately 8,000 smart water meters, which will aid in better demand management and contribute to the financial sustainability of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Faisalabad.

The agreement was formalized by Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, who represented their respective governments.

Dr. Niaz expressed gratitude towards Japan for its support and assured necessary facilitation for the project’s successful implementation. He emphasized the importance of the project as a model for potential replication in other urban areas.

Ambassador Shuichi reiterated Japan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation with Pakistan, underlining the friendly relations between the two nations. The project aligns with Pakistan’s vision for improved urban governance and environmental sustainability.