47 Illegal Chromite Mines Shut Down in Pishin, Illegal Control Over Mineral Resources Will Not Be Tolerated: CM Balochistan Sarfraz Bugti
**Quetta:** Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti has said that the mineral resources of Balochistan are the collective property of the people of the province and any form of illegal activity in this sector will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
In a message shared on social media platform X, the chief minister stated that during a joint operation by the district administration and law enforcement agencies in Pishin district, 47 illegal chromite mines were sealed. He said the action reflects the Balochistan government’s firm resolve to protect mineral resources and uphold the rule of law without compromise.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti pointed out that due to illegal mining, the province currently earns less than Rs10 billion annually from the mines and minerals sector, which is deeply concerning for a resource-rich province like Balochistan. He said such unlawful activities have deprived the province of its true revenue and denied the people their legitimate rights.
The chief minister announced that the Balochistan government is introducing a comprehensive and effective policy to completely eliminate illegal mining and reform the minerals sector. The policy aims to ensure transparency, compliance with legal requirements, promote investment, and significantly increase provincial revenue.
He added that under the new policy, strict action will be taken against illegal elements, while the local population will also be ensured direct benefits from mineral resources. Reaffirming his commitment, Mir Sarfraz Bugti said that the first right over Balochistan’s resources belongs to the people of Balochistan, and the government will safeguard, properly utilize, and manage these resources in the public interest.
