KP had substantial mineral resources whose effective utilisation could strengthen the provincial economy: Dr Sarfaraz Ali Shah
DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Adviser to the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Minerals, Tourism, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Dr Sarfaraz Ali Shah on Tuesday called for coordinated measures to increase provincial revenue from mineral resources, improve the mining system and attract investment in the sector.
He was chairing a high-level meeting of the Mineral Investment Facilitation Authority (MIFA), which reviewed proposals for better utilisation of mineral resources, reforms in the mining sector and removal of administrative and legal hurdles facing investors. The meeting was attended by the secretaries of minerals and forests, director general minerals, commissioner mines and senior officials of the law and finance departments, among others.
Participants discussed measures to increase revenue from the mineral sector, introduce specific mining legislation, demarcate mining areas, address issues concerning Guzara forests and formulate standard operating procedures (SOPs) for smart mining.
The meeting also considered strengthening monitoring mechanisms, ensuring transparency in mining procedures and introducing modern technology to improve the management of mineral resources.
The participants deliberated on the proposed formation of committees to address issues affecting the mining sector and stressed the need for coordination among relevant departments to facilitate investment and resolve institutional bottlenecks.
Dr Shah said KP had substantial mineral resources whose effective utilisation could strengthen the provincial economy, increase government revenue and create investment opportunities.
He said modern mining practices, clear legislation, transparent policies and institutional coordination were necessary for the sustainable development of the sector.
The adviser directed officials to identify obstacles hindering the growth of the mining industry and submit practical proposals for their resolution. He said MIFA should be used effectively to facilitate investors, address departmental issues and develop a transparent and investor-friendly mining system in the province.
