Illegal quarrying in Oman filling mining firm coffers — report

Muscat: More than 100 mining firms netted an aggregate of 43 million Omani riyals (Dh408.8 million) in illegal earnings through unauthorised quarrying activities, the Arabic-language daily Oman said in a report published here on Saturday.

The paper, citing officials of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, said the finding came at the end of a lengthy investigation prompted by an outcry from elected representatives as well as local residents angered by noise and pollution in their once tranquil neighbourhoods.

A total of 113 mining companies were found to have breached licence terms and environmental guidelines, the paper said. Many were found quarrying beyond the allocated limits or were simply operating in unauthorised areas. Some were found to be exploiting resources beyond the validity of their licences.

The government typically earns a five per cent royalty on all revenues, in addition to licence fees and quarry leases. Those earnings totalled around 9 million riyals last year. However, in the wake of widespread complaints from the public, the ministry announced a moratorium on new licences for crushers and quarries pending a review of the industry.

According to the paper, authorities have since identified sites in Sharqiya North and Buraimi governorates for possible exploitation as quarries. These alternative sites, far removed from homes and settlements, will be allocated to companies that pledge to conform to environmental regulations.