Strategic and Systematic Planning of Coal Mining Industry of Sindh, Pakistan through Hybrid Delph-SWOT framework

Abstract

Pakistan possesses huge mineral resources with lignite coal being the most abundant of all commodities. Despite having huge lignite coal potential, the industrial development of these coal reserves remains limited due to a lack of strategic planning. To address this underdeveloped potential, this study employs a hybrid Delphi-SWOT approach to identify and evaluate strategies for sustainable development and efficient utilization of lignite coal reserves of Pakistan. This study comprises two stages in 1st stage, selection of experts and parameters identification from relevant articles was performed while in second stage, SWOT matrix was developed. An initial set of parameters was identified; in the second round, these were narrowed to 30. In the final round, 16 key parameters based upon the feasibility and socio-economic dimensions were finalized in consultation with field experts. Then, these were categorized as Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat (SWOT) matrix. The study revealed that weaknesses like outdated mining practices, poor infrastructure availability, and unavailability of skilled workers with environmental had weight 0.08, 0.05, 0.03 and 0.04. Thus, these could be one of the reasons for lack in industrials growth of coal in the province of Sindh. However, the strengths of substantial lignite reserves with maximum weight of 0.08, rising domestic demand with weight of 0.07, and government support could drive extensive growth in coal-based industries. While opportunities such as growing energy demand with highest weight of 0.13, trade potential in global markets, and technological advancement in the mineral sector could open avenues for investors. Finally, threats such as tightening environmental regulations with maximum weight of 0.06, growing reliance on renewable energy, and political instability were identified as the primary risks to sector growth.