Forging ahead: 21 coal mines to reopen in Akhorwal

Mines had been closed following royalty disputes among residents .

PESHAWAR:

Around 21 coal mines in Akhorwal, Darra Adam Khel are being reopened after almost six years of closure by the political administration and security forces.

Coal mining began in the area in 2003 but was shut down soon after by tribal elders due to differences over the payment of royalties to local clans. Mining was reopened for a brief period in 2006 but once again fell victim to tribal differences.

Talking to The Express Tribune general secretary of the Akhorwal Coal Mine Owners Association, Muhammad Yousaf, said the decision to reopen coal mining in the area was taken by the political administration, security forces as well as tribal elders.



“A committee of tribal elders has been formed and tasked to solve the royalty issue among residents,” he said, adding work was started on June 5 but the resumption of mining activities could take another one or two months as most of the mines were in urgent need of repairs.

“There are four leases in the area and 21 mines in total but most of the mines need to be repaired before mining activities are restarted,” Yousaf said. The sector will be capable of providing hundreds of jobs to locals as well as mine workers who come for jobs from other areas.

Coal Mine Owners Association President Malik Haji Wali Khan said the reopening is a welcome development, especially on part of the political administration and security forces because it will result in better employment opportunities.

“As per the local tradition, royalty will be paid to the Akhorwal clan of Adam Khel Afridis and every family will be able to get its share which was Rs8,000 a month in 2003,” he said. He added that even the average quality coal mined in the area is in great demand across the country.

“It is easily sold at Rs10,000 per ton these days and there is a large market for the Akhorwal coal,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 10^th, 2013.