KP imposes 60-Day ban on illegal mining along Indus, Kabul Rivers

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has imposed a 60-day ban on illegal mining and the extraction of placer gold along the banks of the Indus and Kabul rivers in multiple districts, invoking Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

The ban applies to districts including Swabi, Nowshera, Kohat and Karak, as well as adjoining areas.

A notification issued by the provincial Department of Interior and Tribal Affairs stated that the decision followed reports from relevant departments and deliberations during the 37th meeting of the provincial cabinet.

Authorities expressed serious concern over the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, including water pollution, destruction of natural landscapes and threats to public health and safety.

Official reports indicated that unauthorised mining activities were severely harming the ecosystem and could aggravate security challenges. The government fears that such operations may trigger law and order issues, disputes among local groups and the smuggling of fuel used in excavation.

Officials also warned that certain organised groups involved in illegal mining possess substantial financial resources and may resist enforcement efforts, posing risks to both the public and law enforcement personnel.

The provincial cabinet has directed the Mines and Minerals Department to launch coordinated action against illegal operations. District administrations and police have been authorised to take legal steps, including the confiscation of machinery, vehicles and equipment used in unlawful mining.

Authorities cautioned that violators would face strict action under relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code.

Oil, Gas Discoveries Reported in Kohat and Sindh

Separately, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has informed the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) about new oil and gas reserves discovered in Kohat district.

In a letter to the PSX, PPL stated that drilling at the Baragzai X-1 well in the Nasapa Block commenced on June 30, 2024, reaching a depth of 5,170 metres using advanced testing techniques.

The well has yielded 225 barrels of crude oil per day and 1.01 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of gas, with a reported flow rate of 190 pounds per square inch gauge. The discovery is expected to enhance regional hydrocarbon supplies and help reduce reliance on imported fuels.

Meanwhile, Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) announced a gas and condensate discovery at its Dars West-3 well in Tando Allah Yar district of Sindh.

According to a company statement, the well was successfully tested in the C-Sands of the Lower Goru Formation after being drilled to a depth of 2,100 metres using in-house technical expertise.