Sindh opens doors for international investors in mining sector with transparent auctions and reforms

Chief Secretary Sindh Asif Hyder Shah Presides Over Key Meeting on Mines and Mineral Development, Directs Comprehensive Reforms.

Karachi, December 11, 2024: Chief Secretary Sindh, Asif Hyder Shah, chaired a pivotal and comprehensive meeting today to review the progress, challenges, and future plans of the Mines and Mineral Development Department. The meeting, attended by Secretary Mines and Minerals Tahir Hussain Sangi, Director General Mines and Mineral Department Zulfiqar Khushk, and other senior technical officers, focused on accelerating reforms and unlocking the full potential of Sindh’s vast mineral resources.

The meeting began with an update on ongoing projects, including the strengthening and rehabilitation of the Directorate General Mines and Mineral Development, renovation of offices, and the establishment of a state-of-the-art Mineral Testing Laboratory. These projects, funded with substantial resources, are expected to be completed between June 2025 and June 2026, marking a milestone in Sindh’s mining infrastructure development.

Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah issued several key directives to further improve the department’s performance and attract international investment. He emphasized the importance of publicizing upcoming mine auctions widely and ensuring complete transparency in the auctioning process to instill investor confidence. Stressing Sindh’s abundant mineral wealth, he stated that responsible and transparent management could unlock significant economic opportunities for the province.

The Chief Secretary also directed the department to collaborate with the Geological Survey of Pakistan to conduct a detailed study to explore additional mineral resources in Sindh. He instructed the department to upgrade its website to serve as a modern business platform, showcasing a robust investment model for international stakeholders and highlighting Sindh’s vast economic potential. Secretary Mines and Mineral Development Tahir Hussain Sangi informed the meeting that the department currently oversees 350 mining leases, generating an impressive annual revenue of Rs. 1.7 billion. Despite this achievement, the Chief Secretary called for scaling up operations, enhancing efficiency, and modernizing practices to meet international standards.

Addressing environmental and operational concerns, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of rehabilitation efforts by some leaseholders. He emphasized the importance of sustainable mining practices and directed the department to ensure that leaseholders rehabilitate excavated sites and fill voids or pits left during mining operations. In addition, the department outlined its plans to establish partnerships with the industrial sector and academic institutions to leverage resources like China Clay and Iron Ore for economic growth. Capacity-building initiatives for departmental staff were also discussed, ensuring higher operational standards and preparedness for future challenges.

The meeting further addressed pending disciplinary cases since January 2024 and the resolution of public complaints on PMDU and SPMS dashboards. The Chief Secretary commended the department’s commitment to accountability and public service. Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah lauded the department’s efforts while urging accelerated implementation of reforms, digitalization of operations, and environmental safeguards. He reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable and responsible mineral development, emphasizing that collaboration between all stakeholders is essential to harness Sindh’s mineral wealth for the benefit of its people and economy.