Metrological Construction Company of China – MCC is allowed for exploration and development of East Ore Body in Saindak. The company is locally registered under the name of Saindak Metals Limited – SML. The company was issued with an NoC for the purpose by the Balochistan Government.
Provincial Government extended the contract of SML for another 15 years from which the exploration work on East Ore Body was allowed. The expiry on the present contract is 31st October 2022. However, the MCC is already working on the Saindak Gold-Copper Project since 2002, they applied for exploration of East Ore Body of Saindak. The application was presented to the Balochistan Mines and Mineral Department. The application was applied on the basis of starting a new project as the exploration project at present Saindak site has almost finished.
The contract agreement of SML/MCC was scheduled to expire on 31st October 2022. However, the Balochistan Chief Minister has approved it for an extended time period of 15 Years. ‘The extension of the agreement would guarantee that the investment of $45 Million by MCC will be their risk’. The exploration and development of East Ore Body in Saindak Area will be on the risk of MCC – SML themselves. This was stated in the official letter sent to the Ministery of Energy, Petroleum Division.
However, the letter stated that the extension of the SML Mining Lease would be dealt distinctly as per the provisions of Balochistan Minerals Rules – 2002. Furthermore, the mining lease of SML is still valid up to 2025.
