The Reko Diq mining project, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif underscores the imperative of fortified security protocols and streamlined logistics from Reko Diq to the Gwadar seaport. The directive, issued during the session on Sunday, aims to ensure the safety of all personnel engaged in the project’s operations.
During the meeting, Shahbaz Sharif advocates for comprehensive consultations with stakeholders at official levels to surmount any impediments obstructing the project’s progression. He accentuates the necessity of optimizing communication infrastructure, particularly focusing on the enhancement of railway lines to facilitate the utilization of Balochistan’s mineral resources. Moreover, he emphasizes expediting the construction of roads linking the Reko Diq project to the Gwadar port, stressing on accelerated construction wherever new roads are being developed.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister calls for strategizing the feasibility of establishing a rail and road network connecting Reko Diq to the Gwadar port, highlighting the potential benefits for the mineral-rich Chaghi district and the expansion of the mining industry. He anticipates that the proposed railway line will significantly shorten the distance to the port compared to Bin Qasim port, thus enhancing accessibility.
Seeking detailed insights into the Reko Diq road and rail connectivity project, Shahbaz Sharif sets the agenda for a comprehensive briefing in the upcoming week. He directs the expeditious removal of official hurdles hindering the timely completion of environmental and social impact assessments pertinent to the Reko Diq project.
During the deliberations, it is revealed that the feasibility study for the Reko Diq project is slated for completion by December 2024. The meeting also highlights plans for transporting 6000 containers monthly from the project site to the port, with the project’s concentrate pipeline poised to become the second-longest slurry pipeline globally. Additionally, the mining company commits to constructing a link road from Reko Diq to the national highway M-40.
Moreover, updates on the progress of the 103-kilometer Nokandi to Mashkhel road, essential for connecting Reko Diq to the Gwadar port, are shared, indicating a completion rate of 58%.
Notable attendees of the meeting include Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Petroleum Musadiq Malik, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Muhammad Jehanzeb, and other high-ranking officials.
