Minerals development: CM announces reduction in marble royalty

CM directed relevant officials to solve the problems people in the mining sector face.

Addressing the long-standing demands of mine owners, Chief Minister Pervez Khattak has announced a drastic reduction in the royalty on marble and also directed relevant officials to solve the problems people in the mining sector face. 

According to an official handout, the CM met a representative delegation of mine owners from across the province at the CM Secretariat on Thursday.

Speaking to the delegation, Khattak made it clear that the PTI-led coalition government was eager to exploit the province’s natural resources and accelerate economic and trade activities. However, he cautioned that the government would not be blackmailed by any association or group.

Members of the delegation welcomed the CM’s announcement of reducing royalty and announced an end to their agitation. They also assured full cooperation to the provincial government for mineral development.

“The K-P Minerals Policy 2014 has been launched and a mining act will follow soon,” said Khattak. Our government realises the potential of our natural wealth and has declared it a priority sector, he added.

Minister for Mines and Mineral Development Ziaullah Afridi, Chief Secretary Amjad Ali Khan among other government officials were present on the occasion.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 7^th, 2014.