Pakistan Discovers Massive Gold in Indus River, Attock – Estimated 2.8 Million Tolas
In a significant development for Pakistan’s economy, a large deposit of gold has been reported along the Indus River in Attock district, Punjab. According to surveys conducted by the Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP), substantial gold particles have been found in the river sediments near the point where the Kabul River meets the Indus River.
This discovery is attracting attention because of its potential economic impact. If the estimates are correct and extraction is handled properly, the find could contribute to government revenue, job creation, and long‑term economic growth.
Details of the Gold Discovery
The Geological Survey of Pakistan carried out field surveys and collected numerous samples from a long section of the Indus River in Attock. Based on these surveys and laboratory testing, the following information has been reported:
- Estimated Amount: Around 2.8 million tolas of gold (approximately 32 metric tonnes)
- Estimated Value: Between Rs 600 billion and Rs 800 billion at current market prices
- Type of Gold: Placer gold, which consists of small particles deposited naturally in river sand and gravel over time
- Location: A section of the Indus River approximately 32 kilometers long in Attock district, focused near the confluence of the Kabul and Indus Rivers
- Survey Confirmation: GSP officials collected hundreds of sediment samples and prepared technical reports evaluating the potential of placer gold in the area
This type of gold is not located deep underground but is scattered in river sediments. As a result, it can be easier to access through regulated mining operations compared to traditional underground mines.
How the Discovery Was Confirmed
The Geological Survey of Pakistan carried out the field work, sample collection, and laboratory testing as part of a study titled Potential Evaluation of Placer Gold on River Indus in District Attock. Punjab government officials, including senior mining department representatives, confirmed the findings and emphasized that illegal digging or unregulated mining is banned in the area to protect the resources.
These early reports have generated interest from investors and industry observers. Discussions involving local and international companies, including some mentions of firms from Central Asia, have been noted in related mining dialogues, though formal extraction plans are still in early stages.
Why This Matter for Pakistan
Pakistan faces several economic challenges, including debt, inflation, and balance‑of‑payments pressures. A discovery of this scale could have multiple potential benefits if managed transparently and sustainably:
- Revenue Generation: Regulated extraction and export of gold could bring substantial revenue to the country.
- Job Creation: Mining, processing, and related industries could create thousands of jobs for local workers.
- Debt Relief Support: Increased export earnings could help reduce pressure on foreign debt.
- Mineral Sector Confidence: A major discovery may boost confidence in Pakistan’s untapped mineral resources.
It is important to note that some social media posts have mixed this discovery with unrelated rumors about soil from Tarbela Dam. The confirmed finding from GSP specifically refers to placer gold deposits in the Indus River in Attock.
Quick Facts Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Indus River, Attock District, Punjab |
| Gold Type | Placer gold (river sediments) |
| Estimated Amount | ~2.8 million tolas (~32 metric tonnes) |
| Estimated Value | Rs 600–800 billion PKR |
| Confirmed By | Geological Survey of Pakistan |
| Potential Benefits | Revenue, jobs, economic growth |
What Comes Next
Government agencies, mining departments, and policymakers are now studying how best to approach extraction, investment, and regulation. Any future mining project would need to consider:
- Proper environmental safeguards
- Transparent bidding and investment processes
- Local community impact and benefits
- Sustainable extraction methods
Because placer gold is located in river sediments, authorities must balance economic opportunity with ecological protection to avoid damage to the river ecosystem.
Conclusion
The reported gold discovery in the Indus River near Attock represents a potentially important economic development for Pakistan. With an estimated 2.8 million tolas of gold, the find could support revenue growth, job creation, and confidence in the country’s mineral sector. However, careful planning, official verification, and responsible management will be essential before commercial mining begins.
For the latest verified updates, watch for official announcements from the Geological Survey of Pakistan, the Punjab Mines and Minerals Department, and reliable national news sources.
