Gold-mining works suspended in Kyrgyzstan, as local community protests

Batken. March 18. Silkroadnews –  The National Agency on geology and Mineral Resources considers suspending the explorative work of Australian “Z-Explorer” at Shambesai gold deposits, as the head of Kadamjay District, Akram Madumarov reports.

“The residents of Maydan village in Kadamjay District are protesting against explorative works of “Z-Explorer” at Shambesai gold deposits. They reckon it will have a devastating effect on local ecosystem. The National Agency on Geology and Mineral Resources is currently considering suspending the explorative work of the company”, said Mister Madumarov.

As reported earlier, the Maydan residents burnt “Z-Explorer” office that was located in a close proximity to the village on the October 18th, 2013.

Australian investors had previously decided to accommodate the needs of local community and allocated considerable resources for these purposes.

Shambesai gold reserves are estimated at around 10 tonnes. The mine is located close to Isfairam river, that 150 000 people depend on.

“Z-Explorer” is present in the area since 2005. They were granted licences for the development of these gold deposits in 2012.