Fata development authority is executing a scheme "Investigation and Evaluation of Manganese Prospects" in Mohmand and Bajaur agencies, since 2005, costing Rs 80.147 million. The exploratory activities so far conducted resulted in estimation of 0.120 million tons of manganese ore while for additional reserve, core drilling has been proposed in the work plan 2010-11.
In the available manganese, ore at Takht, Bajaur Agency is of high grade and acceptable to the industry without enrichment. During reconnaissance survey, workable manganese occurrences were identified in Ambar, Safi, Qandahri and Paran Ghar areas of Mohamand Agency and manganese prospects were identified in 22 localities. Biophysical survey was recently been conducted on Nasir Kasai and Razan Dheri manganese prospects, Mohmand Agency in order to determine the anomalous zone at depth which will be subsequently confirmed through core drilling.
Meanwhile, research and Development studies on pilot scale were conducted for manufacturing of ferromanganese alloy in collaboration with the PCSIR laboratories Complex, Peshawar on Takht manganese ore. As per requirement of the PCSIR, two tons manganese form Bajaur Agency, 1 tone coal form Aurakzai Agency and 1 ton limestone were provided for the pilot plant scale studies. Initial studies were carried out by the PCSIR Lab. Complex Peshawar successfully found the manganese are of Bajaur Agency suitable for the manufacturing of ferromanganese alloy.
The Lahor, having manganese content 52 percent, iron as 35 percent. The product is also found compatible with the imported one. To improve the quality of ferromanganese alloy, further studies to get better results are underway.
Governor Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, while appreciating efforts of Fata DA on successful completion of the aforementioned studies, directed that the data generated be shared with potential investors for utilisation of indigenous resources to uplifting the region in particular and the country in general. This would save precious foreign exchange being paid on the import of this commodity, he added.
He further desired that the interested parties/firms shall also invest in the establishment of a hydle power plant for the purpose with a capacity form 4-10 mega watts in Fata. Interested parties are welcome to visit FATA DA office University Town Peshawar for further information in this regard.