Mineral resources of the Gandaki Province of Nepal: present status and prospect

Abstract

Mineral resources serve as the foundation of prosperity for any country or community. However, the process of prospecting and exploring these resources is time-consuming and involves financial risks. It requires the combined expertise of both geoscientists and mining engineers, encompassing academic knowledge and professional skills. In this research, we provide an overview of the mineral resources within the Gandaki province of Nepal and evaluate their present status. The main objective is to examine the current status and potential of mineral resources in the province. To achieve this, we extensively utilize available reports, journal articles, and online sources. We gather both primary and secondary data on mineralization. Additionally, we systematically list the potential locations of all documented mineral resources within the Gandaki province, along with their GPS coordinates. Based on the current geological and mineralogical investigations, as well as our understanding of the province’s mineral resources, we identify ten minerals or mineral groups with potential economic value: iron, copper, uranium, tourmaline, syenite, thermal springs, limestone, dolomite, slate, and meta-basic rocks like amphibolite. We strive to provide geological evidence and context for supporting the presence of these minerals.

In general, iron mineralization is observed as sedimentary deposits, exhibiting a syngenetic nature. Many copper ores are hydrothermally deposited originating from the underlying meta-basic rocks like amphibolite. The region is also known for its abundance of gemstones, including quartz crystals, garnet, kyanite, and tourmaline. These minerals are concentrated in the vicinity of the Main Central Thrust zone and its surrounding areas. Moreover, the province has significant potential for high-quality dimension stones for flooring, roofing, and pavements such as quartzite, slate, phyllite, schist, granite, and gneisses. Additionally, there are ample opportunities for the extraction of construction materials like sand and gravel from the river terraces and natural rock outcrops. Nevertheless, a systematic study focused on prospecting, exploration, and utilization of these potential and possible mineral resources is imperative for an accurate economic evaluation. To achieve this, the provincial government must develop plans and policies to facilitate the development of its own mineral resources. Furthermore, establishing strong collaboration between professionals and academia is crucial to make well-informed investments in the mineral sector. Considering the present status of minerals, the Gandaki province of Nepal holds promising prospects for harnessing its mineral resources for sustainable development.