KSMP project to have enormous opportunities to Kurram Agency: Owais F.P. Report

PESHAWAR: The NWFP Governor has described the Kurram Soapstone Mining Project, a project having enormous economic opportunities for the people of the area, assuring every possible support and cooperation to Maniar Group of Companies to further work on the project. He directed the authorities to expedite ongoing infrastructure development schemes in the area and asked the political administration to ensure a secure environment. He made these remarks while presiding over a presentation on Kurram Soapstone Mining Project at Governor's House here on Friday. Chief Executive FDA Muhammad Shahzad Arbab and Secretary to Governor Arbab Muhammad Arif attended the presentation, given by Mr. Humair Zafar, Chief Executive Officer, Maniar Group of Companies. The objectives of the project is to explore and develop soapstone quarries/ mines in Daradar and Gandao valleys near Parachinar in Kurram Agency and market the mined out material to the international market along with providing job and business opportunities to the locals. Initial estimates revealed that 3.6 million tons of world-class soapstone is available in the said region while approximately 100 million ton soapstone in Kurram Agency, which apart from domestic consumption has an extensive demand in the European market thus becoming an excellent source of foreign exchange earning. Contract for development and international marketing has been awarded to HZM Marrni and Pietre. The Company has started mining and transportation of soapstone from the area in May 2006. During the presentation the Governor was informed about the mining work and its development and marketing initiatives and it was stated that the talc found in the area was of high quality having growing market opportunities.

The Frontier Post
Peshawar.
Saturday, May 17, 2008,
Jamad-i-Awal 10, 1429 A.H.