Except for coal, the minerals present in the district have never been fully explored. Coal is mined by the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC) and a number of private enterprises in Digari, where it was discovered in June 1889.

Minerals	Production (Tonnes)
	1990-91	1991-92	1992-93	1993-94	1994-95	1995-96
Coal	441864	459715	430043	542473	504180	526410
Clay	0	0	0	0	0	0
Limestone	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total	441864	459715	430043	542473	504180	526410

The main mineral resource in district Mastung is coal. Most of the mining activities are carried out in Digari area. The length of the mines vary from mine to mine and range between 250 and 1,000 metres. Most of the mines are equipped with modern safety devices. Manual methods of mining are also still in use.

The PMDC uses modern mining technology and safety equipment for the miners. The miners are paid on the basis of their production. Mastung also has open mines, which are usually exploited with a manual system. These mines are let out on lease by the government. The person interested in mining applies for the lease to the Deputy Commissioner.

The marketing of minerals is in the hands of brokers (commission agents). They buy the coal and transport it by truck and rail to other parts of the country. Most of the coal goes to Punjab and Sindh provinces, where it is used in brick klin industry.

The Directorate of Mineral Development of above mentioned Department supervises the mining industry of Balochistan. Its main functions and responsibilities include granting concessions for mining in Balochistan, upholding mining concession rules as promulgated in 1970, realising royalties, rent, etc., giving technical advice to mine owners and ensuring scientific exploitation of the minerals. The Inspector of coal mines examines the mines and issues certificates under the Mines Regulation Act 1926 and the Mines Act 1923. From time to time many amendments have been made in these acts.

Provincial government and private enterprise provide mining and transportation facilities. International donors provide some assistance at provincial level, but do not play a role at the district level.

Coverage Mining Services	Local Govt.	Prov. Govt.	Fed. Govt.	NGO	Internat. Donor	Private Enterpr.
Mining	-	x	xx	-	x	xxx
Processing	-	x	x	-	-	xxx
Transportation	-	-	-	-	-	xxx

Mastung is very rich in coal deposits. Most of the coal is explored in Digari. Most of the mine workers do not follow safety precautions as a result of which many accidents happen. Mine workers are in need of training and orientation programmes. Leases are let out only to the local population. The government is not taking much interest in the exploration, production and marketing. The mining sector is facing problems like poor technology, inadequate safety and exploitation by middlemen. The hurdle in the way of mining development is poor government policy response.

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