Pakistan Petroleum Limited begins execution phase of Balochistan barite, lead and zinc project

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has formally entered the execution phase of its Barite, Lead and Zinc (BLZ) Project in Balochistan after signing a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) contract with Germany-based engineering firm DMT, marking a significant step towards developing Pakistan's mineral resources.

The agreement was signed on June 23 at PPL's head office in Karachi by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mohammad Khalid Rehman and DMT Germany Head Florian Beier in the presence of senior officials from both organizations, including Head of PPL Minerals Zeeshan Asghar.

The BLZ Project is a joint venture between PPL, which serves as the operator, and the Government of Balochistan. The signing of the PMC contract officially launches the project's execution phase and is expected to accelerate development activities.

According to PPL, the partnership with DMT Germany reflects the company's commitment to adopting international best practices, technical excellence and effective project execution. DMT is globally recognized for providing engineering and consultancy services to the mining and natural resources sectors.

The BLZ Project is regarded as one of Pakistan's most significant large-scale open-pit mining ventures. The project is expected to play an important role in unlocking the country's mineral potential and supporting the government's efforts to expand the mining sector's contribution to the national economy.

Industry sources said that the development of the project could strengthen Pakistan's mineral exports while creating economic opportunities in Balochistan through investment, infrastructure development and employment generation.

PPL said the project is expected to become a key driver of economic growth in the region and contribute significantly to the development of Pakistan's mineral resources, reinforcing the country's broader strategy to attract investment into the mining sector.

The signing of the consultancy agreement comes amid increasing focus on Pakistan's untapped mineral wealth and ongoing efforts to develop major mining projects aimed at boosting exports and supporting long-term economic growth.