## **Operational Thar Coal Blocks Save Pakistan US$3.2 Billion in Fuel Imports: Sindh CM**
**KARACHI:** Sindh Chief Minister **Syed Murad Ali Shah** has said that the development of two operational coal mining blocks in Thar has enabled Pakistan to save approximately **US$3.2 billion** in expensive fuel imports, demonstrating the economic value of harnessing indigenous energy resources.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing the **Mining Technical Conference 2026**, organized by the **Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC)** under the theme **”Driving Pakistan’s Mining Sector through Collaboration, Innovation & Technology.”**
Highlighting Sindh’s commitment to the mining sector, Murad Ali Shah said the provincial government has established a comprehensive legal and policy framework that has transformed the development of Thar’s vast coal reserves.
He noted that Pakistan possesses enormous untapped mineral wealth that can significantly contribute to economic growth if supported by investment, modern technology, and skilled human resources.
“The Mining Technical Conference is a landmark initiative that brings together industry, academia, and technology providers—the three pillars that will shape the future of Pakistan’s mining sector,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized that while investment in modern mining equipment is essential, equal attention must be given to developing human capital capable of leading the sector for decades to come.
“I urge companies to invest not only in machinery but also in people,” he said.
Murad Ali Shah stated that two mining blocks in Thar are currently operational, including one developed by **SECMC**, and the utilization of indigenous coal has already helped the country avoid spending **US$3.2 billion** on imported fuels.
He added that Pakistan’s mineral resources have the potential to become a major driver of employment, industrialization, and national economic growth through responsible investment, technological innovation, and a skilled workforce.
The Sindh government, he said, remains committed to facilitating responsible investment and strategic partnerships that generate long-term economic benefits for both local communities and the country.
### **Collaboration Key to Mining Sector Growth**
Speaking at the conference, **SECMC Chief Executive Officer Amir Iqbal** said Pakistan’s vast untapped mineral resources are attracting growing interest from international investors.
He said the conference was designed to create a collaborative platform where mining companies, academic institutions, technology providers, and government agencies could work together to address common challenges and accelerate sectoral development.
“Our responsibility as the convenor was to bring the right stakeholders to one table. Mining companies contribute operational expertise, universities provide research and innovation, technology firms deliver advanced solutions, and the government offers policy support. Meaningful progress is possible when these strengths are connected,” he said.
Amir Iqbal stressed that no single organization could transform Pakistan’s mining industry independently, underscoring the need for sustained partnerships that integrate operational experience, academic research, government support, and global technological expertise.
He added that SECMC intends to make the Mining Technical Conference a recurring platform for knowledge sharing, research collaboration, workforce development, and technology adoption to support the long-term growth of Pakistan’s mining industry.
### **Focus on Skills and Technology**
A key outcome of the conference was the consensus that technological advancement must be accompanied by significant investment in human resource development.
As mining operations become increasingly digital, automated, and data-driven, participants emphasized the growing demand for highly skilled professionals, including mining engineers, geologists, equipment operators, data specialists, researchers, and technical experts capable of operating advanced mining systems.
The conference brought together representatives from leading national and international organizations, including **Reko Diq Mining Company, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Sindh Sindh Resources Limited (SSRL), National Resources Limited (NRL), HUBCO, Fauji Group, Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC), Lucky Cement, Komatsu, DMT Germany, EACON Mining Technology,** and **Tonly Heavy Industries**, reflecting broad industry support for the sustainable development of Pakistan’s mining sector.
