KABUL (Pajhwok): The official extraction of the tourmaline (locally known as “Beroj”) mine has begun in Bazarak district of the central Panjshir province, with extraction of the precious stone expected to start soon in Anaba and Abshar districts as well.
The Panjshir provincial media office said in a statement that, with the aim of creating job opportunities, strengthening the local economy and ensuring the proper use of natural resources, the official extraction process of the tourmaline mine has started in Bazarak.
The statement added that ten tourmaline mines have so far been identified in Anaba, Abshar and Bazarak districts of Panjshir.
According to the office, these mines were previously extracted on a trial basis, and laboratory analysis of samples showed positive results, paving the way for the official start of extraction.
Quoting Mohammad Qasim Amiri, head of Mines and Petroleum in Panjshir, the statement said extraction work in Bazarak began after completing legal procedures and obtaining an official license.
The provincial media office further stated that licensing procedures for extraction in Anaba and Abshar districts have also been completed, and mining operations are expected to begin there soon.
According to the report, in addition to gold, emerald, and tourmaline mines, 17 other types of precious stones have also been identified in the province.
Some residents of Panjshir said mining activities, especially emerald extraction in recent years, have boosted local trade and markets.
They added that continued regulated mining could create job opportunities for young people and help improve household incomes.
sa
