Loralai mines liaison committee told to resolve mining disputes in line with law

LORALAI: An important meeting of the District Mines Liaison Committee was held under the chairmanship of Loralai Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Muhammad Haseeb Shuja. It reviewed in detail the mineral activities under way in the district, mining leases, the concerns of local residents, mining-related disputes and other important matters.

Officials of the departments concerned attended the meeting. The participants discussed the use of mineral resources in the district, the situation in mining areas and various matters, including problems between lease holders and local residents. Officials briefed the Deputy Commissioner on mineral activities and the matters under consideration.

The meeting stressed that all mineral activities in the district should be carried out in accordance with the relevant laws, rules and regulations and government policy. It was also stressed that the legitimate rights, interests and concerns of local residents should be kept in view during mining.

No one allowed to take the law into their hands

Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Haseeb Shuja said mineral resources play an important role in the economic development of the district. However, he said, the rule of law, transparency, protection of the rights of local residents and the maintenance of law and order should be among the top priorities in mining.

He directed that all parties in mining-related matters be heard in accordance with the law. He also directed that effective steps be taken to resolve disputes through mutual consultation, dialogue and legal procedure. He made it clear that no party would be allowed to take the law into its own hands or disturb law and order.

Stressing better coordination between departments and timely exchange of information, the Deputy Commissioner said complaints and problems related to mining should be settled promptly under the prescribed procedure instead of being left pending without reason. He also directed effective monitoring of legal requirements, safety measures and other matters in mining areas. He further directed that action be taken in accordance with the law against any illegal activity or violation of the rules.

The meeting resolved that all the institutions concerned would continue to work together to promote mineral activities within the legal framework, protect the rights of local residents, resolve disputes fairly and ensure lasting law and order in mining areas.

Photo: courtesy DGPR Balochistan