Salim Daneshpour told reporters that 121 mines are currently active in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. Of these, 88 operate in the “crushed stone” sector, and 21 are involved in “marble” production.
He referred to the province’s water crisis and ongoing droughts, noting that given rising unemployment and limitations in agricultural and livestock development, leveraging the mining sector could be an effective solution for job creation.
The Head of the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Mining Engineering Organization added that 1,063 people are currently employed in the province’s mines. He emphasized that establishing a production and processing chain plays a key role in the mining economy and employment, and should receive serious attention.
Daneshpour also mentioned that 253 mineral industry units are active in the province. Unfortunately, a large portion of decorative stone outputs is sent to other provinces in raw form.
He stressed that the highest added value and employment potential lie in mineral processing. Mining and mineral industries, besides their direct economic impact on rural communities near the mines, also contribute to the economic growth of nearby towns and villages.
The head of the provincial Mining Engineering Organization further noted that raising awareness about mining activities in both rural and urban areas is crucial, as many of the province’s mines have been shut down or are involved in legal and administrative disputes due to local challenges.
