Mineral dept to carry out survey of mining sites in Sindh

In a bid to enhance revenue generation and prevent illegal mining activities, the Sindh Department of Mines and Minerals has decided to conduct a baseline survey of mining sites in the province.

The decision was made during a meeting chaired by the Sindh minister for mines and minerals as well as education, Syed Sardar Ali Shah. The meeting was attended by Sindh Mines and Minerals Development Secretary Tahir Hussain Sangi, Mines and Minerals Director General Zulfikar Khokh and directors and officers who discussed key issues related to the mining sector in the province.

The meeting discussed how to identify new mining sites, establish separate courts to address mining-related cases and improve the monitoring system of mining sites. The minister stressed the importance of exploring new sites, grading minerals and establishing a museum and laboratory in the director general's office.

Currently, 27 types of minerals are being mined in Sindh generating a significant revenue for the province. In the fiscal year 2023-22, Rs1702.89 million was collected, whereas Rs1804.43 million was collected in the fiscal year 2023-24.

Shah issued directives to ensure public safety and health standards in the mining areas. According to a statement issued by the government, the mines department aims to attract investors by creating market utility for minerals and collaborating with factories, universities and research institutes.