Stone Quarry Workers Urge Authorities for Immediate Relief
Pulwama, July 13, 2024 – In a pivotal development today, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, a renowned social and political activist, along with leading members of the Stone Quarry Association, including Nazir Ahmad Badam, Farooq Ahmad (Sarpanch), Mohammad Shafi Para, and others, visited the DC Office in Pulwama. Their mission was to meet Mr. Basharat Qayoom, IAS, the District Magistrate of Pulwama, to address the urgent issues faced by stone quarry workers.
However, the delegation was redirected by Mr. Qayoom to Er. Mohammad Manzoor, the District Mineral Officer (DMO), as he was unavailable for a direct meeting. Despite this challenge, the association expressed appreciation for Mr. Qayoom’s referral and the DMO’s willingness to hear their concerns.
The delegation emphasized the deep-rooted tradition of stone quarrying in the region, which has been a vital livelihood source for nearly 150 years. Residents of Wuyan, Khrew, Khonmoh, Shar-I-Shali, Ladhoo, Mandekpal, and other neighboring areas of Tehsil Pampore have long depended on stone quarries and crushing units. This long-standing practice, passed through generations, now supports educated youth in the region, becoming a crucial source of income and educational support for local families.
They outlined the severe difficulties faced by quarry workers due to recent restrictions on stone excavation and crushing. These constraints have severely impacted their ability to earn a livelihood. Many workers have taken out loans, which are now classified as non-performing assets (NPAs) due to the halted operations. Additionally, families are struggling to meet school fees, jeopardizing their children’s right to education.
The quarry holders highlighted their adherence to regulations set by the Geology and Mining Department, noting that short-term permits were issued and renewed until June 2019. Since then, quarry activities have ceased, affecting both quarry holders and 70 stone crusher units in the Wuyan area. These units, representing significant investments, play a crucial role in state infrastructure development and provide numerous jobs.
In their memorandum sent via email on July 13, 2024, to Shri Manoj Sinha Ji, Honorable Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, the delegation requested urgent humanitarian intervention. They appealed for immediate measures to restore their operations and ensure the welfare of their community, emphasizing the critical need for government support to resolve their issues.
The stone quarry workers remain hopeful for a swift resolution to secure their livelihoods and ensure their children’s educational future.