PESHAWAR – The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has officially released a white paper detailing the proposed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Bill, 2025. This new draft law outlines major reforms and fresh objectives for the province’s mining sector.
According to the white paper, the upcoming Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Bill is designed to bring provincial mining laws in line with those of other provinces and the federal government. The bill focuses on increasing domestic and international investment in KP’s mineral resources.
A key feature of the proposed bill is the creation of a Mineral Investment Facilitation Authority. This body will help streamline mining-related processes and attract investors. The bill also introduces a digital system for granting mineral titles and licenses, aiming to ensure more transparency and easy public access.
As part of the reforms, the license period for leases will be shortened to three years. The goal is to make the process easier for potential investors. A powerful and independent appellate tribunal will also be formed. This tribunal will handle disputes and deliver quick, fair decisions.
The white paper further mentions the need for a complete geological database. The relevant department will be legally bound to create and maintain this database. To tackle illegal mining, a special task force will be set up. This force will seize machinery and issue fines to curb unlicensed activity.
Officials clarified that all existing mining leases and applications will remain valid under the new law. The changes will not cancel or affect any previous legal agreements.
In response to criticism from some politicians, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur made a strong statement. He clarified that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Bill does not transfer any provincial authority to outside entities. “A certain mafia seems to be resisting these reforms to protect their own interests,” he said, dismissing the false claims being spread about the bill.
CM Gandapur emphasized that the proposed changes are intended to boost KP’s income. He also revealed that illegal mining had been happening in four gold mines for the past 76 years. None of the earlier governments tried to stop it, he said.
Controversy around the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Bill surfaced last week when different PTI factions clashed over its approval. Some critics linked the bill to the endorsement of party founder Imran Khan. Concerns were raised over provincial control, transparency, and investor trust.
However, during a detailed session in the KP Assembly, CM Gandapur explained each clause of the draft law. He assured lawmakers that no aspect of the bill undermines the province’s rights. A special meeting of PTI’s political committee was also held to examine the bill thoroughly.
The committee reviewed all provisions and agreed unanimously. It found no part of the proposed legislation that hands over KP’s autonomy, mineral rights, or administrative control to the federal government, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), or any other national body.
The PTI political committee confirmed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Bill will not be passed without proper consultation. The final version will be fully aligned with Imran Khan’s vision, the party’s manifesto, and the public’s expectations.
PTI leadership has made it clear that the bill will move forward only after detailed discussions. Other parliamentary parties will be consulted as well. No decision will be rushed, and no shortcuts will be taken. Approval will come only with the final green light from PTI’s founder.
