Countrywide surveys to identify new mining zones

by Lalin Fernandopulle

The National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) will conduct countrywide surveys on gem deposits to identify unexplored areas and potential new mining zones, said Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Minister Rohitha Bogollagama.

Launching a development program for the gem industry Minister Bogollagama said steps will be taken to recognise gem mining in river beds deploying sucking machines. A team comprising experts in the gem industry will be involved in the mission.

Opportunities to extract Insitu (Primary) deposits using advanced technology will be looked into, he said. Adequate lands will be provided for gemming by releasing lands through plantation companies and government sector organisations. A proper procedure to auction gem lands with transparency will be introduced, Bogollagama said.

An internationally recognised gem testing laboratory will be set up in Colombo. In addition provincial level and mobile laboratories will be set up. A laboratory was opened at Beruwela on July 1.

The Minister said a program will be launched to facilitate development of the skills' standards of gem and jewellery stakeholders to meet industry needs. The program includes seminars and workshops to enhance the knowledge and skills of gem miners. Steps will be taken to promote and practise environmental friendly gem mining systems. Tree planting and awareness programs will also be conducted. Steps will be taken to rehabilitate damaged river banks and close abandoned gem pits, Bogollagama said.

A gem trading bank will be set up to assist miners to obtain loans to purchase machinery and equipment at concessionary rates.

The NGJA in a move to increase its exports is planning to capture the Chinese market. The NGJA will initially participate in the Chinese Jewellery and Gem Fair to be held in November this year, the Minister said. He said the NGJA will open a gem museum by the end of this year.