Mining Musakhel

Introduction

The mountainous land of Musakhel may be rich of minerals, but lack of interest in exploration of mineral resources by the government and the non-co-operative attitude of the local population are the main reasons that so far no mining activities have been carried out in the district. About ten years ago, the presence of coal was indicated near Kingri, but the local people started posing problems to the explorers just to black mail the local administration. As a result work was suspended and still is suspended to date. Similarly, when oil and gas reserves were indicated at Hamzazai near Drug, the work was stopped due to interference by the local people.

Mineral Resources

According to the local resources, the presence of coal near Kingri and the presence of oil and gas reserves near Drug have been reported. In the near future, a British gas company will explore the presence of gas near Khajoori.

Conclusion and major Development Issues

 

 

Local Govt.

Prov. Govt.

Fed. Govt.

NGO

Internat. Donor

Private Entr.

Exploration

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Legend: -

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no involvement

substantial involvement

 

Although the land has mineral resources, the negative and non-co-operative attitude of the local population is one of the major hurdles to their exploration. The government would have to facilitate the explorers and provide them security. The attitudes of the local population may be changed through awareness creation. They should be assured that the exploration and onward exploitation of the mineral resources in the district will not only benefit the national economy, but will also help socio-economic development of the area.

 

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