Noor-ul-Haque

Engr. Noor-ul-Haque is a distinguished mining professional, currently serving as General Manager (Technical) and Officer-in-Charge at the Head Office Quetta, Technical Training Center Dalbandin, and Project Site Saindak, Saindak Metals Limited (SML), under the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), Government of Pakistan. Holding this esteemed BPS-21 position since August 2023, he has been a driving force behind strategic planning, technical operations, and large-scale resource development. His visionary leadership and unparalleled technical expertise continue to shape the trajectory of Pakistan’s mineral and mining sector.

Strategic Leadership & Industry Contributions

Before his current role, Engr. Noor-ul-Haque served as Chief Mining Engineer (SPS-11, equivalent to BPS-21) at SML from June 2016 to July 2023. His profound expertise was instrumental in the exploration of the East Ore Body, North Ore Body, and South Ore Body, working in close collaboration with Chinese mining conglomerate MRDL. His pivotal role in North Ore Body, East Ore body, particularly when MRDL initially submitted Pre-Feasibility/Feasibility reports of the above bodies.

Revitalization of the North Ore Body (2017)

In 2017, MRDL submitted a feasibility study for the North Ore Body of 2 year plan for extracting 6 million ton of mineable ore by presenting an alarming -24 million USD NPV, thereby deeming the project economically unfeasible. MRDL subsequently sought to impose restrictive conditions on SML, including the closure of the smelter, reduced royalty payments.

At this critical juncture, Engr. Noor-ul-Haque took decisive action. Leveraging his deep-rooted expertise in geology and mining, he engaged in high-level negotiations with the Secretary of Mines (GoB), DG Mineral Wing (GOP). His relentless efforts resulted in the unconditional signing of Addendum 3 (2017), nullifying MRDL’s imposed restrictions and ensuring the project’s sustainability. Moreover, his dedicated exploration efforts unearthed an increase from 6 million tons to 10.3 million tons of reserves in the North Ore Body, significantly benefiting SML and fortifying its operational future.

Restructuring the East Ore Body Feasibility (2019)

In 2019, MRDL once again presented a flawed Pre-feasibility study, this time for the East Ore Body, showing a staggering -26 million USD NPV. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, Engr. Noor-ul-Haque strategically persuaded the Managing Director to establish a Technical Evaluation Committee under the Board of Directors. As Secretary of the Committee, alongside the Director General Mines GOB, Director of Mineral Wing GOP and a Director of GSP, he meticulously revised and rectified the NPV figures from -26 million USD to 34 million USD. This intervention compelled MRDL to revise their feasibility study to an NPV of 40 million USD. Additionally, giving directives to MRDL for further exploration in 2021, these initiatives expanded mineable reserves from 85 million to 130 million tons, solidifying the project’s long-term viability and economic feasibility. Through his unwavering commitment to technical excellence, strategic foresight, and national interests, Engr. Noor-ul-Haque has played a transformative role in securing the future of Pakistan’s mining sector. His unwavering patriotism and dedication have established him as a visionary leader and custodian of the country’s mineral wealth.

Key Contributions at Balochistan Copper Gold Project (Reko Diq)

Prior to his tenure at Saindak Metals Limited, he served as Senior Manager Technical (Mining) (SPS-11) at the Balochistan Copper Gold Project (BCGP), Reko Diq, Chagai (2012 – 2015). During this period, he spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that revolutionized Pakistan’s mining landscape, including:

• Designing an inclined shaft with a comprehensive cost analysis, crew deployment strategy, and machinery allocation for the extraction of 10,000 tons of bulk samples for metallurgical and column leach testing at H4 Tanjeel, Reko Diq.
• Optimizing machinery selection, including power shovels, drill machines, dumpers, and dozers, to enhance extraction efficiency.
• Developing advanced drilling and blasting parameters for the Tanjeel H4 open-pit mine to improve excavation precision.
• Conducting an in-depth study tour of China is leading mining facilities, including Di-xing Open-Pit Copper Mine and Jiangxi Copper Mine’s Gui Xi Smelter.
• Serving as a consultant for Deloitte Chartered Accountants in the Mines & Mineral Development sector under the Balochistan Comprehensive Growth Development Strategy (BCGDS 2019), shaping mining policies and strategic initiatives.

International Mining & Blasting Expertise

Chief Engr. Noor-ul-Haque’s distinguished career extends beyond Pakistan, with extensive international experience in the UAE’s mining and quarrying industry. He held key positions, including;

• Blasting Engineer, Technical Consultant, and Production Manager at National Emirates Drilling, Blasting, and Quarry Services, Fujairah, UAE (2001-2012).

Notable Achievements & Certifications

• Executed Pakistan’s largest controlled blast at the Saindak Copper-Gold Project (10 August 1995), utilizing 40 tons of explosives.
• Completed six months of specialized training in surface mining operations, sponsored by Pakistan and China.
• Awarded a Rock-Blasting License by the Ministry of Interior, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
• Certified in safety and environmental awareness by the Emirates Technical & Safety Development Centre (ETSDC), Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Academic Credentials

• Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering – University of Engineering & Technology, Peshawar.
• Master of Science in Geology – University of Balochistan, Quetta.
• Bachelor of Science in Geology – Government Degree Science College, Quetta.

Legacy & Industry Impact

With a stellar career spanning over three decades, Engr. Noor-ul-Haque has cemented his reputation as a trailblazer in mining, engineering, and resource management. His expertise in large-scale mining operations, feasibility studies, and strategic resource planning has not only redefined Pakistan’s mineral landscape but has also established him as an influential global figure in the mining sector. His relentless pursuit of excellence, strategic innovation, and commitment to national prosperity continue to drive monumental advancements in Pakistan’s mining industry. A visionary leader and national asset, his contributions remain indispensable to the future of the country’s mineral wealth.