The government has approved Rs1.79 billion to enhance security for the multibillion-dollar Reko Diq gold and copper project, addressing increasing concerns over the law and order situation in Balochistan.

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) sanctioned the funds after a comprehensive review of the project’s security needs. The decision is part of the Security Services Framework Agreement (SSFA) between the Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) and the Government of Pakistan, along with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between RDMC and the Frontier Corps Balochistan (South).

The Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control initially requested a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSC) of Rs1.792 billion through the Finance Division. While the Finance Division initially approved Rs286.987 million, further deliberations led to the full amount being granted.

A high-level meeting on February 6, 2025, chaired by the Interior Secretary, facilitated consensus on the project’s actual security requirements. Following the ECC’s directive, the approved funds will be allocated through a dedicated cost center titled “Reko Diq Project Frontier Corps Balochistan (South),” ensuring the existing Frontier Corps budget remains unaffected.

Under the agreement, RDMC will finance the security under a “support allowance” category, which will cover operational costs but will not contribute to the salaries or allowances of Frontier Corps personnel.

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The ECC’s approval of the full TSC amount is expected to reinforce security for foreign personnel and ensure uninterrupted progress on one of Pakistan’s most significant mineral extraction projects.