Study begins for copper mining in Myagdi’s Okharbot

MYAGDI: A preliminary study has begun for copper mining in Okharbot, located in Malika Rural Municipality of Myagdi district.

M/S Dongyi Minerals Pvt. Ltd., which has obtained permission from the Department of Mines and Geology, is currently preparing a Preliminary Environmental Assessment (PEA) report as part of the first phase of exploration and potential mining operations.

The copper deposit is situated on the border of wards 3 and 4 of Malika Rural Municipality.

According to Moti Prasad Budhathoki, Ward Chairperson of Malika-3, a team of geologists will assess the quantity of copper available, evaluate possible environmental impacts, and recommend mitigation measures to minimize ecological risks during mining operations.

As part of the process, the company held a public hearing in Okharbot last week to collect feedback from local residents in the potentially affected areas.

In addition, a seven-day public notice was issued on Tuesday, inviting suggestions from individuals and organizations in the region.

Local residents have expressed optimism about the resumption of copper mining and welcomed the initial study. However, they have emphasized the need for environmental safeguards and disaster risk management.

They also urged that employment opportunities be prioritized for those who may be directly affected by the mining activities.

Geologist Ronit Poudel, who is leading the on-site study, stated that full-scale copper exploration and research will begin after the environmental report is approved.

The mining process will proceed to the next phase once the exploration and feasibility assessments are completed.

Local elder Bisram Patel, 72, of Malika-3, recalled that copper was extracted from the Okharbot mine until 2028 BS using traditional methods.

According to him, operations ceased due to technological limitations and excessive taxation, which made mining economically unsustainable.

Patel shared that more than 200 workers were once employed daily at the mine, and up to seven to eight dharnis (approximately 4–5 kg) of copper were extracted each day.

He also mentioned the presence of two natural springs within the mine area, ranging from 250 to 500 meters in length. Visible copper pits and tunnels—some extending up to 200 meters deep—still remain at the site.