Says Govt vows to balance growth with environmental protection
DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, Apr 2
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary informed the Legislative Assembly that 527 stone crusher units are currently operational across Jammu and Kashmir, functioning in accordance with the prescribed regulations, and that ongoing development works in the Union Territory remain unaffected despite a number of units being non-functional.
The Deputy Chief Minister made this statement while replying to a Calling Attention Notice moved by legislator Balwant Singh Mankotia. He provided a detailed account of the status of stone crusher units in the region, stating that out of a total of 691 units, 527 are operational while 164 are non-functional. Among the non-functional units, 48 have been sealed or closed due to violations of regulatory norms.
He emphasized that the operational units are functioning smoothly and are compliant with all required guidelines, ensuring that the supply of construction material remains steady. According to him, the closure of non-compliant units has not had any significant impact on developmental activities, as sufficient production capacity exists within the compliant units to meet the demand of executing agencies.
Surinder Choudhary further elaborated that the government has taken several measures under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Minor Mineral Concession Rules 2016, along with the guidelines issued by the Pollution Control Committee, to regulate the sector effectively. These measures are aimed at curbing illegal mining, ensuring environmental compliance, and maintaining a steady supply of finished materials required for construction and infrastructure projects.
He noted that strict enforcement of these regulations serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it helps prevent revenue losses to the government caused by illegal mining activities, and on the other, it ensures that development works continue without disruption. The department is closely monitoring the operations of stone crusher units to ensure adherence to all norms related to environmental clearance, consent to operate, and pollution control mechanisms.
The Deputy Chief Minister made it clear that only those units which comply with all the prescribed requirements are allowed to operate. Units found violating norms, such as lacking environmental clearance or failing to implement pollution control measures, have been shut down after due process. He stated that these units were given sufficient notice and time to rectify their deficiencies, but action was taken when they failed to comply.
He also highlighted that the decision to close non-compliant units was necessary to safeguard public health and protect the environment. The authorities have acted in accordance with the law, ensuring that all actions taken are transparent and justified.
Environmental protection remains a key priority for the administration, even as it pursues infrastructure development across the Union Territory.
Surinder Choudhary further informed that regular inspections are being carried out to prevent the illegal operation of stone crusher units. The government has adopted a strict approach toward violators, with appropriate penalties and enforcement actions being taken against those found flouting the rules.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he stated that efforts will continue to strike a balance between developmental needs and environmental sustainability. The administration remains focused on ensuring that infrastructure projects progress efficiently while maintaining ecological integrity and adherence to regulatory standards.
