GSI Discovers Additional Gold Mine in Aspari Mandal; Mining Continuing in Tuggali
Kurnool: Andhra Pradesh now faces the prospect of having a new gold mine – in Aspari mandal of this district. This is apart from the ongoing mining activity in Tuggali in the same district.
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) conveyed to mining officials in Nandyal that a preliminary survey has confirmed prospects for gold mining in the region, supplementing continuing efforts in nearby areas.
A comprehensive survey would be done to ascertain the volume, quality, and extent of these gold reserves. The profitability of mining in these new areas is also to be evaluated. GSI aims to complete its detailed survey shortly.
In a parallel development, the Jonnagiri project, spanning Jonnagiri, Yerragudi, and Pagidiroy villages in Tuggali Mandal, is on track to commence full-scale gold production by the end of 2024. This project, which marks the completion of a survey made by the GSI in 1994 in Tuggali and Maddikera mandals, is witnessing significant investment from Geomysore company.
Geomysore has invested around Rs 150-200 crore in the Jonnagiri project, encompassing 350 acres of owned land and an additional lease of 1,500 acres. The investment includes the development of mining facilities, processing units, dump yards, and water reservoirs.
The project's preparatory phase involved extensive drilling of 30,000 metres at 20-metre intervals across the vast 1,500-acre area. This exploration aimed to evaluate the gold availability, quality, and other mining aspects.
Further, the confirmation of gold deposits in the rocks of Rayalaseema has sparked hope among the locals, especially in areas like Aspari which are known to be backward and drought-prone. The present discovery raised expectations among the local people for a brighter economic future for them as well.
