Pulwama, July 13, 2024 – In a crucial development today, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, a prominent social and political activist, along with leading figures from the Stone Quarry Association—including Nazir Ahmad Badam, Farooq Ahmad (Sarpanch), Mohammad Shafi Para, and others—paid a visit to the DC Office in Pulwama. Their primary goal was to discuss the urgent issues faced by stone quarry workers with Mr. Basharat Qayoom, IAS, the District Magistrate of Pulwama.
The delegation, however, was unable to meet with Mr. Qayoom as he directed them to Er. Mohammad Manzoor, the District Mineral Officer (DMO). Despite this disappointment, the association expressed their appreciation for Mr. Qayoom’s referral and the DMO’s willingness to listen to their concerns.
The delegation underscored the deep-rooted history of stone quarrying in the region, a practice that has been integral for nearly 150 years. Residents of Wuyan, Khrew, Khonmoh, Shar-I-Shali, Ladhoo, Mandekpal, and other nearby areas of Tehsil Pampore have depended on stone quarries and crushing units for their livelihood. This tradition, maintained across generations, now provides essential income and educational funding for local families, especially in the absence of other job opportunities.
Recent restrictions on stone excavation and crushing have severely impacted the workers’ ability to earn a living. Many have accumulated loans from financial institutions that have become non-performing assets (NPAs) due to halted work. Additionally, families are facing difficulties in paying school fees, jeopardizing their children’s right to education.
The quarry holders stressed their adherence to Geology and Mining Department regulations, noting that their short-term permits were valid and renewed until June 2019. Since then, quarry activities have been suspended, affecting not only the quarry holders but also 70 stone crusher units in Wuyan. These units are significant investments that contribute to the state’s infrastructure development and employment.
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 urged immediate humanitarian intervention. They requested measures to resume their operations and ensure the welfare of their community, emphasizing the urgent need for government support to resolve their issues.
The stone quarry workers remain hopeful that their concerns will be promptly addressed to secure their livelihoods and the educational futures of their children.
