KP Government Halts Mineral Development Company Plan After Public Criticism

Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to suspend the implementation of the Mineral Development Company following widespread public criticism.

In a message shared on social media, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stated that just as provincial companies have been established for the energy and oil and gas sectors, the government also intends to form a company for the minerals sector. The aim, he said, is to ensure that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa benefit from their valuable natural resources and to eliminate illegal mining and the influence of mining mafias.

The Chief Minister clarified that the bill presented before the provincial cabinet was not the Mines and Minerals Bill 2025, but a bill to establish the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mineral Development Company. However, he acknowledged that there is confusion, ambiguity, and public concern regarding mines and minerals-related legislation.

“Public trust is our top priority,” he said, adding that in light of these concerns, the government has decided to halt the company’s formation and the legislative process for the time being.

It is worth noting that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet had earlier approved the Mineral Development Company Bill. The decision to pause its implementation comes amid ongoing debate and criticism from various segments of society.