ISLAMABAD: The government is committed to develop marble and granite sector in the country to strengthen national economy.

Federal Production Secretary Mohammad Javaid Iqbal Awan said this during his visit to Pakistan Stone Development Company Machinery Pool Risalpur.

“We should exploit these natural minerals, like marble and granite, to boost exports and strengthen national economy,” he was quoted as saying.

He urged that mine owners should give up orthodox mining practices, including blasting which are causing huge wastage of natural stone deposits.

He said PASDEC had established three projects only in Buner to develop local marble and granite sector that has huge industry potential in the region.

These projects would deliver benefits to local industry and also generate employment opportunities.—APP