MYAGDI, Dec 28: Residents of Machhim in Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality–7, Myagdi, have expressed optimism after studies began to revive a copper mine that has remained closed for nearly five decades.
MS Dongyi Minerals Pvt Ltd, which has received approval from the Department of Mines and Geology, has started exploration and feasibility studies for copper extraction in the area. The copper mine, located on slopes near Machhim village, consists of six sites that have remained inactive for around 50 years.
Ward Chairperson Ashok Khatri said a team of geologists has arrived to assess the copper content. An access road connecting the mine area to the main road linking Machhim and the rural municipality center, Muna, has already been constructed to support the study.
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According to Khatri, if exploration and feasibility studies produce positive results, the next phase will move toward extraction. Local leader Chandra Bahadur Chhantyal said the start of studies has brought enthusiasm among residents.
He recalled that until 2028 BS, copper was extracted using traditional methods. The mine was later shut down due to lack of technology and because taxes exceeded income at the time. The Chhantyal community, traditionally known for mining, originally settled in Machhim for copper extraction.
Remnants of old tunnels and copper traces are still visible in the hills. Locals previously entered these tunnels and extracted copper using basic tools such as hammers and chisels. The copper was used to make household utensils like water pots, bowls, measuring containers, and cups, many of which are still preserved in homes.
Local resident Kul Bahadur Chhantyal stressed the need for environmental safety, disaster-risk prevention, and prioritising employment for affected locals if mining resumes. The same company is also conducting feasibility studies at the Okharbot copper mine in Malika Rural Municipality.
According to the Department of Mines and Geology, Myagdi district contains various mineral resources including copper, iron, quartz, limestone, slate, marble, copper ore, and natural hot springs. Copper is the most commonly found mineral in the district.
Besides Machhim, copper deposits are found in Gurja and Malkawang of Dhaulagiri, and Thadakhani, Kuinekhani, and Manglekhani of Raghuganga. Slate deposits are found in Narja of Dhaulagiri and Rum, Dadagaun, and Niskot of Malika Rural Municipality.
