In a bold stride toward unlocking its geological potential, Bhutan’s Department of Geology and Mines (DGM) has ramped up efforts to chart the nation’s vast mineral resources. While teams of geologists, surveyors, and support staff have been scouring the rugged terrain for deposits of copper, tungsten, graphite, and a host of other minerals, a groundbreaking aerial survey promises to revolutionize the country’s understanding of its underground riches.
Aerial Survey Set to Transform Mineral Mapping
Recognizing the limitations of traditional field surveys in a country marked by steep mountains, dense forests, and deep gorges, the DGM has secured Nu 700 million from the government to launch a comprehensive aerial survey. An Australian firm will deploy helicopters equipped with magnetometers and LiDAR (laser scanning) systems to fly at altitudes of 10,000 feet or below, meticulously covering the south, west, central, east, and even parts of the north. The low-altitude grid-wise approach will detect subtle magnetic variations indicative of mineral deposits while generating detailed 3D maps of geological formations.
The project, scheduled to last three months of active flying, will be followed by nine months of data analysis. This rigorous process is expected to culminate in a complete, high-resolution mineral map of Bhutan within a year. Officials highlight that aeromagnetic surveys are particularly effective in regions where conventional mapping is challenged by thick vegetation, soil cover, glaciers, and other natural obstructions.
Bridging the Gap in Geological Knowledge
Currently, only about 34% of Bhutan has been geologically mapped at a 1:50,000 scale. This piecemeal information has long hindered efforts to exploit the nation’s mineral potential. “Our past surveys, while thorough, could only cover a fraction of the country. With the new aerial survey, we hope to overcome the constraints of limited manpower and challenging terrain,” said a senior DGM official.
The enhanced mapping is expected to guide future ground explorations and inform government decisions on which sites hold economically viable deposits. Past studies, such as those in the Black Mountain region, revealed modest copper deposits—findings that were ultimately deemed limited by the era’s technology and logistical challenges. Now, armed with state-of-the-art tools, DGM aims to reassess these areas with a broader and more detailed perspective.
Promising Prospects Amid Persistent Challenges
Among the minerals under scrutiny, copper emerges as one of the most promising candidates. Initial indicators suggest potential deposits stretching from Gongkhola in Sarpang and Trongsa to areas near Surey, Reti, and the Black Mountain region. Tungsten, a metal of high value, is being investigated in Dholpani and Bhurkhola, while iron ore, graphite, and lead-zinc combinations are also on the radar across various districts.
Not all findings, however, have been encouraging. Despite some association with copper, gold has so far been largely disappointing, with only one of eleven samples showing mere traces that fall short of economic viability. Even so, the hunt for viable deposits continues, with teams combing through archival data and collecting new samples across the country.
A New Chapter for Bhutan’s Mining Future
Beyond the well-known resources, DGM is exploring a range of other minerals, including rare earth elements, dolomite, limestone, quartzite, coal, and gypsum. Notably, concerns over the concentrated distribution of gypsum are prompting efforts to locate more evenly dispersed deposits to avoid localized environmental impacts. There are even plans to revive and expand slate mining, potentially bolstering infrastructure projects like the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Bhutan’s renewed push in mineral exploration marks not only a technological leap but also a strategic move to lay the groundwork for sustainable mining development. As the aerial survey progresses and the nation’s mineral map takes shape, the DGM remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming geological challenges into economic opportunities.
