QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Friday said that at least 47 illegal chromite mines have been closed in Pishin district during a joint operation by the district administration and law enforcement agencies (LEAs).
In his message on social media, he said that the mineral resources of Balochistan are the collective property of the people of the province and any illegal activity on these resources would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The chief minister clarified that illegal mining was not only damaging the national and provincial treasury but was also a serious challenge to law enforcement.
He said that these actions were practical proof that the government of Balochistan would not compromise on the protection of mineral resources and the rule of law.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti pointed out that due to illegal mining, the province was earning less than Rs 10 billion annually from the mines and minerals sector, which was a matter of concern for a resource-rich province like Balochistan.
He said that due to illegal activities, the province had been deprived of its real income and the people of their legitimate rights.
The chief minister announced that the Balochistan government was introducing a comprehensive and effective policy to completely eliminate illegal mining and reform and improve the mineral sector, which aimed to ensure transparency, fulfill legal requirements, promote investment and significantly increase the province’s revenue.
He said that under this policy, local population would be directly benefited from mineral resources and strict action would be taken against illegal elements.
