Feasibility study on Reko Diq project to be concluded by year-end, PM told

The feasibility study of the multibillion-dollar Reko Diq gold and copper mining project would be completed by the end of 2024, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was told on Friday.

Briefing the progress on the project, a delegation of Barrick Gold-led by its Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow told the premier: “Its feasibility would be completed by the end of this year.”

Talking to the delegation, the premier said the gold and copper mining project would prove to be a game changer for not only the development of Balochistan but the entire region.

He said the project would usher in a new era of development of the province and prosperity of the people. “Plans will be chalked out regarding communication infrastructure, especially railway lines to take full advantage of the mineral potential of Balochistan.”

He also encouraged the gold mining company to invest in other projects of minerals in Balochistan and proposed a joint venture between the government and the gold company for the establishment of a Technical University in Chaghai.

PM Shehbaz said the government was taking all possible measures, including projects for better roads and communication infrastructure, to facilitate investors.

He was told that local and Balochistan domicile holders are being given priority in jobs on the project.

It was said that the company, under corporate social responsibility, has established three schools near the Reko Diq.

So far, one hundred people, including women, have been imparted vocational and technical training by the gold mining company.

It is pertinent to mention here that the company plans to finish the feasibility study update by the end of 2024, with 2028 targeted for first production from the giant copper-gold mine in Balochistan.