The Bangladesh Geological Survey (GSB) has found uranium, a valuable mineral in the country. According to sources in the GSB and the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, the riverine sands of Padma, Jamuna, Brahmamutra, Mymensingh and Greater Sylhet contain a variety of minerals and chemicals as well as extractable uranium. These trace elements are in high demand and valuable in the world market.

Earlier, GSB also found uranium at the foot of Garo Hills in greater Mymensingh district. However, it was not suitable for commercial extraction.

According to the Bangladesh Geological Survey, sand samples from 20 meters deep at least 10 places in the Padma, Jamuna and Brahmaputra were analyzed and found to contain 9.5% of extracted heavy minerals and chemicals. However, even if this amount is only 6%, it is considered commercially viable. On the other hand, if 1 gram of uranium is found in every ton of sand, it is considered collectible, but its availability is more in that area of ​​Bangladesh.

These minerals include barium, tritanium, zircon, rubidium, strontium, chromium, nickel, tantalum, neobium, ruthenium, asbestos and indium. They are used in paper mill, printing press, rubber, pharmaceutical, synthetic, electronic and other industries. And uranium is an important element in nuclear power plants, nuclear research, and the military. Platinum (the most expensive mineral) has been reported in Bangladesh in the past.

References: The Prothom-alo