'No bloodshed over new provinces,' says CM

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday dismissed claims of a collapsing system, urging critics to "visit Thar" to witness development on the ground, while vowing that no one would be allowed to shed blood over the issue of new provinces.

Speaking to media after addressing a mining technical conference organised by the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company, Shah said the Constitution clearly outlines the procedure for creating new provinces, requiring a two-thirds majority. He reiterated that the Sindh Assembly has repeatedly rejected the idea.

"There is no harm in debate, but the Sindh Assembly has unanimously opposed the creation of new provinces," he said, adding that the public continues to repose trust in the provincial leadership.

On protests, CM Shah said peaceful demonstration is a fundamental right but must follow due process. "Protests should be held with administrative permission. Causing inconvenience to the public is not acceptable," he added.

The chief minister said the provincial cabinet has approved procurement of 500,000 tonnes of wheat, with provision to increase it to one million tonnes. "Our priority is to protect local farmers," he said.

He termed the coal project a "highly successful model" built on collaboration between local communities, investors and the government. "No mining project can succeed without local participation. The Thar model should be replicated across Pakistan," he said.

Earlier, addressing the conference, CM Shah expressed hope that the event would spur further investment in Pakistan's mineral sector.

Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company CEO Aamir Iqbal said experts from Germany, the UK, Japan and the Middle East attended the conference. He added that Pakistan holds vast untapped reserves of gold and copper worth billions of dollars.

"Resources exist, but modern mining techniques are needed for extraction," he said, adding that both US firms and local groups are showing interest in the sector. However, infrastructure gaps remain a key concern for investors.

Iqbal said the conference would be upgraded to an international mining summit next year. He also announced plans for a coal-to-fertiliser gasification project.

"We do not currently use grid electricity, but plan to do so by 2028, which will reduce coal costs," he said, adding that the chief minister has been invited to inaugurate Thar Coal Phase III in October.

Komatsu's Mining Business Development Director Michael Madsen said the company has evolved from a machinery manufacturer into a provider of advanced mining solutions. He highlighted investments in autonomous hauling systems, modular mining and digital technologies.

He said Komatsu operates in 17 countries with a workforce of around 67,000, adding that continued investment in research and development remains central to its growth. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting Pakistan's mining sector through technology and partnerships.