Telangana Dy CM Bhatti asks Singareni to explore JV with Hutti Gold Mines in K’taka
Raichur (Karnataka), Aug 28(TNT): Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu on Friday directed Singareni Collieries Company Ltd officials to explore the possibility of forming a joint venture with Karnataka government-owned Hutti Gold Mines for gold exploration and mining.
During his visit to Hutti and UT gold mines in Raichur district, Bhatti inspected the entire process, from extraction of gold-bearing ore to processing and refining.
He said Hutti Gold Mines had extensive expertise in gold exploration, mining, processing and refining, while Singareni had technical experience in mining and mineral exploration. Combining the expertise of the two public sector undertakings could help boost domestic gold production, he said.
Bhatti asked Singareni officials to prepare an action plan for collaboration with Hutti in gold exploration, mining, ore extraction, processing and refining.
The plan should also examine the use of modern technologies, deployment of technical experts and training of personnel, he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister said gold was important for the country’s economic security and stressed the need to increase domestic production and reduce dependence on imports.
A Hutti-Singareni partnership could help improve production, promote technology adoption and generate employment, he said.
At Hutti Gold Mines, Bhatti inspected the production unit, ore processing plant and electrowinning facility. Officials explained the various stages involved in converting mined ore into refined gold and said the project produces an average of 2 to 4 kg of gold a day.
He later visited the UT open-cast gold mine and observed gold-bearing ore extraction operations.
He also sought details about the depth of mining and technologies being used for gold exploration.
Bhatti subsequently inspected the UT underground mine and enquired about ore extraction and transportation, machinery and safety measures for workers.
He also examined mine maps and planted a sapling at the site.
Singareni CMD Dr Buddha Prakash Jyoti, Director (Planning and Projects) Venkateshwarlu, General Manager Pankaj Kuleshrestha and senior officials of Hutti Gold Mines were among those present.
TNT TKS
