First Green Garnet Mine Discovered in Panjshir's Anaba District
The Minerals and Petroleum Department in Panjshir province has announced the discovery of the first green garnet mine in the province, located in Ab-Dara village of Anaba district.
Mohammad Qasim Amiri, head of the department, reported the find, while Saifuddin Laton, spokesman for the provincial governor, told Pajhwok Afghan News that a team of experts from the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum verified the site in coordination with the provincial department.
Extraction rights for the mine have been granted to an individual named Syed Rahim through an official mining license, according to both officials. Laton added that green garnet has been added to the list of precious and semi-precious stones in the province for the first time, with its extraction expected to contribute to economic growth and mining sector development.
Green garnet, a green-colored variety of the gemstone composed of calcium and aluminum silicates, is used in jewelry-making, decorative arts and certain industrial applications.
Khaama Press described the department as Taliban-controlled and noted criticisms from citizens over favoritism in mine contracts, often awarded to Taliban officials or relatives. Panjshir is known for its mineral potential, including semi-precious stones, though access and licensing have faced accusations of lacking transparency and local participation. Pajhwok separately mentioned that ten new ruby mines have been verified in the province and extraction has begun at an emerald mine.
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