QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti has announced the development of a comprehensive strategy aimed at eradicating illegal mining, ensuring transparency in leases, and safeguarding the province’s vast mineral resources. The move is part of a broader push to attract global investment and provide long-term economic stability.
The announcement came during a meeting with a delegation from the Mines Owners Association (MOA) at the CM Secretariat. The delegation lauded the provincial government’s recent decision to grant industry status to the mining sector, calling it a “historic and far-sighted move.”
CM Bugti stated that elevating mining to an industry is a crucial step for economic growth, job creation, and effective resource utilization. “This decision will not only ensure better protection and welfare facilities for workers but will also provide a strong and clear policy framework for investors,” he asserted. He emphasized that the sector is a fundamental pillar of Balochistan’s development.
The government is introducing a new system focused on transparency, modern technology, and robust regulation aligned with international standards. Bugti also stressed that worker welfare is paramount, highlighting priorities like improving safety, health standards, and establishing Rescue Centers in key mining regions like Chamalang and Duki.
The MOA delegation praised these initiatives, predicting the reforms would boost investor confidence and bring stability to the sector. The discussion also covered the establishment of a Chamber of Mines, provision of land, and resolving ongoing sectoral issues.
Meanwhile the Frontier Corps (FC) Balochistan (South) seized narcotics worth an estimated Rs4.9 billion during an intelligence-based operation in the Surak area of Panjgur, officials said on Tuesday.
According to FC Balochistan (South), the operation led to the recovery of 570 kilograms of opium and 491 kilograms of cocaine powder. Security forces also arrested two suspects from the site.
Officials said the operation targeted a key drug-trafficking network believed to be linked with elements involved in destabilising activities. They added that the force is pursuing a “zero-tolerance policy” against narcotics and remains committed to dismantling organised drug networks operating in the region.
