KP Bans Gold Mining on Indus & Kabul Rivers

KP Government Bans Gold Exploration Along Indus and Kabul Rivers Following Environmental Concerns

PESHAWAR — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a 60-day ban on gold exploration along the banks of the Indus and Kabul rivers, officials confirmed.

An official notification from the Home Department stated that the restriction specifically targets “gold spacer” activities, aiming to prevent environmental damage and maintain law and order in the region. The ban has been enforced under Section 144 in districts including Swat, Nowshera, Kohat, and surrounding areas. Authorities have warned that anyone found violating the order will face legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

This move follows a series of deadly incidents linked to illegal mining and unregulated river activities. Earlier this month, the government imposed an immediate ban on sand and gravel mining in the Swat River after a flash flood claimed 17 lives, including tourists visiting the area. Rescue teams have so far recovered 11 bodies, rescued three individuals, and continue searching for the remaining three missing persons.

Provincial Minister for Livestock Fazal Hakim Khan Yousafzai said the government has also launched a major anti-encroachment operation to remove illegal structures along the riverbanks. “An independent inquiry into the Swat tragedy is ongoing. Four officials have already been suspended, and further action will be taken against those found guilty,” he added.

In a related announcement, the KP government confirmed that families of the victims from the Swat River flash floods would receive Rs1 million in compensation each. A spokesperson for the Chief Minister said an inquiry committee, headed by the Chief Minister’s Inspection Team, has been formed to investigate the incident.

The government’s actions come amid growing public pressure to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies linked to unregulated mining and riverbank activities.