Exploration activities have resumed at the country’s first iron ore mine in Pirganj upazila of Rangpur after nearly six decades. Scientists are hopeful of discovering not only iron but also other valuable minerals, including copper, nickel, and gold.
The exploration began through the excavation of a geological drilling well at Chhoto Paharapur village under Shanerhat union on February 1. The initiative is being carried out by the Bangladesh Geological Survey (BGS).
After inaugurating the programme, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Secretary Mohammad Saiful Islam told journalists that the then Pakistan government’s Mineral Resources Department first identified preliminary signs of iron ore deposits in 1965 in areas under Shanerhat and Mithipur unions, including Velamari village. At that time, four wells were drilled and sealed with concrete, remains of which are still visible.
Following the Indo-Pakistan war in September 1965, mineral experts conducted further studies using satellite imagery and field surveys. A detailed survey covering nearly six square kilometres of Velamari and Shanerhat villages later confirmed the presence of large iron ore reserves along with other valuable mineral resources. Concrete markers were placed at the suspected source points, but the project was abandoned before full-scale exploration could begin there.
Despite repeated discussions after Bangladesh’s independence, mining activities never progressed. After almost 60 years, exploration has finally resumed with the drilling of a new geological well named GDH-79/25.
Speaking at the event, Secretary Saiful Islam said the government would extend full support if commercially viable mineral resources are discovered. “This is not an ordinary initiative, it is a long-cherished national aspiration. The minerals extracted here could play a significant role in strengthening the national economy,” he said.
Bangladesh Geological Survey Director General Abdul Mannan said exploratory drilling had previously been carried out in 2000 under project GDH-54 to study underground conditions. Another well, GDH-78/23, was drilled in 2023 at Kashimpur village under Mithipur union, where traces of mineral resources were found. He said drilling up to 1,200 metres is planned this year.
“If the exploration confirms adequate reserves and economic feasibility, we will recommend the government move forward with mineral extraction,” Mannan said. He added that the region’s geological basement is highly favourable for metallic minerals, increasing the likelihood of iron, copper, nickel, manganese and gold deposits.
A visit to the site showed scientists and officials preparing drilling operations using modern equipment, with extensive logistical activities underway. Pirganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Popy Khatun and Shanerhat Union Parishad Chairman Mesbahur Rahman said the local administration and residents would provide full cooperation to ensure the success of the exploration.
