In a significant development for Uzbekistan’s mining sector, the Besapantau deposit in the Tamdyn district is emerging as one of the most promising gold mining sites in the country. The deposit, which is part of the Central Mining Administration, is currently engaged in the extraction of gold-bearing ore, marking a new chapter in the region’s mineral resource exploitation.
Dilshod Jumaniazov, the head of the Besapantau mine, provided detailed insights into the ongoing operations:
“Currently, ore extraction is underway at the Besapantau and Balpantau quarries, which are part of the mine complex. These sites present complex geological structures, requiring specialized mining techniques. Particular attention is being paid to drilling and blasting operations to ensure efficient and safe extraction.”
The scale of operations at Besapantau is impressive, with approximately 60 units of heavy mining equipment deployed across the site. This includes state-of-the-art machinery such as Epiroc drilling rigs, Hitachi, Komatsu, and Liebherr hydraulic excavators, as well as Komatsu and Caterpillar dump trucks. This extensive array of equipment underscores the significant investment and technological advancement in the project.
The extracted ore is transported via railway to Hydrometallurgical Plant No. 2 for processing, integrating the mine into the broader mineral processing infrastructure of the region. This logistical setup ensures efficient handling and processing of the extracted resources.
Looking towards the future, the Besapantau project is set for substantial expansion:
- The Besapantau quarry is projected to reach dimensions of approximately 1,750 meters in length, 1,050 meters in width, and 300 meters in depth.
- The Balpantau quarry will extend to about 1,370 meters in length, 1,350 meters in width, and 200 meters in depth.
These expansions signify the long-term potential and commitment to the project. Jumaniazov further revealed that the mine has set an ambitious target of extracting over 12 million tons of ore annually, highlighting the scale of operations and the deposit’s significance to Uzbekistan’s mining sector.
The development of the Besapantau deposit is expected to play a crucial role in boosting precious metal production at the Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Combine, one of Uzbekistan’s largest industrial enterprises. This increase in production capacity aligns with the country’s broader strategy to leverage its mineral resources for economic growth and development.
This expansion comes at a time when global gold production is facing challenges. According to recent data, Kazakhstan, a neighboring country and significant gold producer, is expected to see a decline in gold production with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of -3.38% between 2023 and 2027[6]. In this context, Uzbekistan’s investment in expanding its gold mining operations at sites like Besapantau could potentially position the country to fill gaps in the global gold supply.
The Besapantau project represents a significant step forward in Uzbekistan’s mining industry, showcasing the country’s commitment to modernizing its mineral extraction capabilities and boosting its economic output through responsible resource development.
