Mining Ground Realities — Lead-Zinc, Coal Mines, and Provincial Politics
1. Ongoing Projects: Duddar, Saindak, and Thar
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The Duddar lead-zinc mine in Balochistan, operated under a Chinese joint venture, is Pakistan’s largest underground base metals operation, with 50 million tonnes of ore and annual production capacity of 500,000 tonnes
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The Saindak copper-gold mine, operated by MCC, has expanded ore processing capacity as of January 2024, producing copper, gold, and silver
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The Thar Coal Railway is a key infrastructure project linking the Thar coal fields to Pakistan’s main rail network; valued at over Rs 58 billion, it aims to enhance coal transportation and export capability
2. Governance and Legal Contention in KP
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The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Bill, 2025—currently under consideration—aims to overhaul provincial mining law. It proposes new licensing routes, a local Mineral Investment Facilitation Authority (MIFA), and a provincial enforcement force, but faces strong resistance over fears of federal encroachment and limited stakeholder consultation
3. Tanking Safety and Local Impact
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While not as news-centric, mining activities in Pakistan also face persistent challenges such as safety hazards and environmental concerns—highlighted by incidents in coal and mineral mines nationwide.
Takeaway: Amid growing investment and infrastructure, Pakistan’s mining sector must grapple with equitable governance, mining law reform, and ensuring provincial voices are included in policy development.