The Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP) has uncovered significant gold deposits, estimated to be worth approximately ₹600 billion (600 billion Pakistani rupees). The discovery, reported by Times of India, highlights around 32.6 metric tonnes of gold in the Indus River, believed to have been transported by fast-moving waters from the northern mountainous regions.
According to the Times of India, the gold particles, which accumulate in the riverbed, have been a subject of local collection, particularly when the water level of the Indus River recedes during winter months. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial government confirmed that the gold originates from the Himalayan region, traveling downstream through the Indus River and depositing in areas such as Peshawar.
The GSP’s findings have drawn attention to regions near Attock, located in Pakistan’s Punjab province, where additional gold deposits may be found. The discovery has prompted the Pakistani government to impose Section 144, prohibiting illegal mining activities in the gold-rich areas along the Indus River, in an effort to protect these newfound resources.
Economic Implications: A Lifeline for Pakistan’s Troubled Economy?
This discovery comes at a time when Pakistan is grappling with significant economic challenges. Provincial officials in Punjab, including the Mining Minister, have expressed optimism that these gold deposits could play a pivotal role in helping Pakistan recover from its economic crisis, potentially alleviating the national debt.
Pakistani media, including Nav Bharat Times, reported that gold is spread over a 32-kilometre stretch of the Attock district, increasing hopes for economic revival. If extracted responsibly, the gold reserves could generate substantial revenue for the country and bolster its financial stability.
The discovery also offers a potential avenue for job creation, especially for young people in the Attock region. Responsible mining practices could stimulate local economies, although officials stress the importance of regulating mining operations to ensure sustainability and prevent illegal activities.
As Pakistan moves forward with this discovery, the key will be to establish a framework for responsible, legal mining to ensure that these valuable resources contribute positively to the country’s future economic growth.
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