25

86. Investigation was made into the possibi- C*^J;1
lity of the manufacture of chemical manures

from the phosphate nodules and from the gyp-
sum of the Salt Eange. The fact that the former
mineral was not found in commercially work-
able quantities, and that the latter was suitable
for only certain types of soil, accounts for the
absence of result from either experiment.

87. Dandot offers almost unrivalled ad- Cement,
vantages for the manufacture of Portland Ce-
ment. Lime, gypsum clay and coal are all
found on the spot: the first two at any rate in
unlimited quantities. A syndicate was given

in 1918 concessions to exploit the minerals, and
Government entered into a ten years* contract
for the purchase of cement. The arrangement
was^opposed by Indian interests and also finan-
cial authorities in England on grounds of princi-
ple, and the refusal by Government to sanction
transfer of concessions resulted in their lapse.

88. The biggest chemical project which has
yet been considered was that of the construction
of a caustic soda factory at either Easul or
Khewra. While the Director of Industries was
examining this scheme the Canal Department
were considering the possibility of the erecting of
a hydro-electric station at Easul, Detailed in-
vestigations in both directions were made, and
the results are on record, but both are schemes
which still await development.