Unregulated placer gold mining in streams, rivers threaten ecosystem of Gilgit-Baltistan

Gilgit-Baltistan faces a growing threat to its ecosystem from unregulated placer gold mining activities in streams and rivers. Authorities warn that these operations pose a serious risk to key infrastructure such as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, roads, bridges, settlements, and agricultural land. Authorities say untreated wash water, debris, and oil from mining machinery are contaminating river and stream water, polluting the air and land, and threatening public health and safety.

Environmental laws are routinely violated, with heavy machinery used for gold extraction near critical infrastructure causing erosion and sedimentation issues. The lack of proper waste management and sanitation facilities exacerbates the problem. The GBEPA and Wapda, responsible for monitoring these activities, admit they lack the necessary personnel to enforce environmental regulations effectively.

The situation has forced authorities to threaten fines and suspensions of mining operations, and even seal project sites.