On site survey in Tunkhel village and Mandal sub-province of Selenge province
2021-08-16

During the meeting, issues related to the stagnation of the current artisanal mining regulations were discussed and information was provided accordingly. Took an interview pictures from two ASMers who’s dedicated many years of hard work in the artisanal and small-scale mining industry and the community leader, who has worked in the field for many years. We also got acquainted with the operation of the processing plant, got information about the production process and operations, and took pictures. D.Dambiisurenjav, who worked on the mining site of the Baatar Vangiin Khishig Kholboo NGO, met with the members working at the community's mining site, listened to their opinions, provided information and took pictures. We also got acquainted with the operation of the Tunkhel Manlai community's mining site and blasting depot, exchanged information with members and provided information. In addition, a geologist was invited to work to determine the reserves of the mining area. It was discussed that the jobs of artisanal miners should be provided by a professional organization in order to avoid economic losses on a sustainable basis. During the meeting, photographs were taken with new images to be submitted to foreign and domestic organizations and posted on the organization's website, and the stories of two artisanal miners were prepared for use in advocacy work. There was also an opportunity to meet with representatives of the stockpiling organization at the ASMNF to find a way to address the stockpiling issues facing artisanal miners. The increase in the number of ore-mining workshops is commendable, but the failure to identify reserves has led to an increase in the debt of artisanal miners to processing plants due to the supply of low-grade gold ore. Members also complained of job losses, revenue closures, and increased debt due to the hasty approval of the draft regulation on artisanal and small-scale mining, and the lack of a new contract, land permit, and conclusion due to Government Resolution 355. The complexity of these issues has frustrated members and led to their involvement in illegal activities.

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