QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti on Tuesday announced that the provincial government was preparing a comprehensive strategy to curb illegal mining, safeguard mineral resources and introduce greater transparency in the mining lease system. He said the plan was expected to deliver “positive results soon,” as the province works to open its mineral wealth to global investors.
Mr Bugti made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Mines Owners’ Association (MOA), which expressed gratitude for the government’s recent move to grant industry status to the mining sector — a decision they described as historic and forward-looking. The meeting also discussed the establishment of a dedicated Chamber of Mines, allocation of land for sectoral needs, investment avenues and challenges confronting mine operators.
The session was attended by Provincial Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani, MPA Prince Agha Omar Ahmedzai and senior officials from the administration and mines department.
The chief minister said elevating the mining sector to industry status marked a crucial policy shift aimed at economic stability, employment generation and improved resource utilisation. “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 noted.
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Mr Bugti termed the mining sector a key pillar of Balochistan’s long-term development, adding that the government was working to introduce a system built on transparency, modern technology and enhanced regulation in line with international oversight standards. He emphasised that worker welfare remained central to the government’s agenda, with measures focused on improving working conditions and strengthening safety, health and rescue mechanisms.
The MOA delegation welcomed the initiatives, particularly government plans to establish rescue centres in Chamalang and Duki, which are among the province’s most active mining regions. They said the reforms were timely and would help protect workers’ rights while fostering confidence and attracting new investment.
Mr Bugti asserted that the mining sector was a fundamental pillar of Balochistan’s development.https://t.co/FBKg5heJ5x
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) December 10, 2025
Delegates said they expected the evolving policy framework — including crackdowns on illegal extraction, clearer licensing procedures and improved enforcement — to bring greater stability to the sector, enabling more sustainable development of Balochistan’s vast mineral reserves.
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