Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has come under criticism over its social media campaign on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s mineral resources, with claims circulating online linking the reported emergency in the province to the exploitation of mineral wealth.
According to a research account cited in the claims, PTI-linked social media accounts have repeatedly shared an old video of a US chargé d’affaires discussing Pakistan’s mineral potential, including resources in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and other parts of the country.
The campaign alleges that the emergency was imposed to facilitate the exploitation of KP’s mineral resources. However, the circulating video alone does not establish a link between the emergency and any mining project.
Critics have also questioned PTI’s record on mining licences and mineral extraction during its time in power, arguing that the party’s current narrative should be assessed against its own governance record.
Questions raised over PTI’s mining record
According to figures cited in the research account, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had fewer than 1,000 mining licences before PTI came to power, while more than 4,719 licences were reportedly issued during its tenure.
The account alleges that mining activities focused heavily on extracting raw materials rather than developing finished or refined products that could generate greater economic value for the province.
It also points to placer gold extraction along the Indus River, claiming that hundreds of excavators were used to recover gold and other minerals from river sand. Allegations linking these operations to companies owned by PTI ministers require independent verification.
Critics argue that the province’s mineral wealth should generate sustainable employment, public revenue and industrial development rather than become a source of political controversy.
FWO mining project becomes part of the debate
The research account also disputes allegations that the military has taken control of KP’s mineral resources, claiming that only one mining licence in the province is held by a military-linked organisation.
It identifies the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO)-operated mine at Boyadegan as that project and says it provides employment to local residents and contributes to community development.
The claims regarding the number of licences, the project’s operations and its corporate social responsibility record would require confirmation through official mining records and independent reporting.
Developing mineral wealth requires transparency
Pakistan has significant mineral potential, but turning natural resources into long-term economic benefits requires investment, skilled workers, effective regulation and transparent licensing procedures.
Developing local processing and refining industries could also help the country move beyond exporting raw materials. Reliable infrastructure, transport networks, supply chains and environmental safeguards are equally important for sustainable mining.
Experts and policymakers have long emphasised the importance of balancing mineral extraction with environmental protection and the interests of local communities.
