GSMB to get new investigations and raids unit: Minister

Colombo, Oct. 28 (Daily Mirror) - Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti has called for the urgent establishment of an Investigations and Raids Unit within the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to strengthen oversight and accountability.

The minister visited the GSMB premises in Nawala yesterday (28), where officials briefed him on ongoing challenges, including employee concerns, licensing delays, legal issues, and transport problems. A special discussion was held to address these long-standing issues.

Established in 1903 as the Sri Lanka Minerals Survey, the GSMB is responsible for mineral exploration, issuing licenses, granting exploration and lease rights, maintaining laboratory services, and providing geological information. Until October 18, the bureau operated under the Ministry of Environment and has now been placed under the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development.

Speaking at the event, Minister Handunnetti said the contribution of mineral resources to Sri Lanka’s economy remains minimal. He stressed the importance of formulating a national policy with clear guidelines to maximize their value. “It is essential to add value to mineral resources. The government has identified obstacles to the development of the mineral industry, and measures will be taken soon to position these resources effectively within the economy,” he added.