Myagdi, December 29 — Residents of Machhim in Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality–7, Myagdi district, have expressed optimism after a long-awaited study resumed for the exploration and possible extraction of copper from the Tamakhani mine, which has remained closed for nearly five decades.

MS Dongyi Minerals Pvt. Ltd., a company that has obtained approval from the Department of Mines and Geology, has restarted geological surveys and feasibility studies at the Machhim copper mine. The mine, located on nearby slopes, comprises six identified copper sites that have been inactive for around 50 years.

Ward Chairperson Ashok Khatri said a team of geologists has arrived to assess the copper reserves. To facilitate the study, an access road has been constructed linking the mine site with the main road connecting Machhim to the rural municipality headquarters at Muna.

According to Khatri, extraction activities will proceed to the next phase only after exploration and feasibility assessments are completed.

Local leader Chandra Bahadur Chhantyal said residents are pleased with the renewed attention to the mine, which once played a central role in the community’s livelihood. He noted that copper was extracted using traditional techniques until 1971. The mine was shut down due to outdated technology and a tax burden that exceeded income at the time.

The Chhantyal community, traditionally known for mining, has a long history in the area. Evidence of copper veins, tunnels, and mineral seepage remains visible. Copper extracted from the mine was historically used to produce household utensils such as water pots, measuring containers, and cups—some of which are still preserved in local homes.

Residents have urged authorities and the company to ensure environmental safety, disaster risk mitigation, and employment priority for locals. The 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 hosts a variety of mineral resources, including copper, iron, quartz, limestone, slate, marble, and natural hot springs. Copper remains the most abundant mineral in the district, with deposits found across multiple rural municipalities.