Pulwama, July 13, 2024 – In a pivotal move today, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, a respected social and political activist, joined forces with key members of the Stone Quarry Association, including Nazir Ahmad Badam, Farooq Ahmad (Sarpanch), and Mohammad Shafi Para, to address pressing issues faced by stone quarry workers. They visited the DC Office in Pulwama with hopes of discussing their concerns directly with Mr. Basharat Qayoom, IAS, the District Magistrate of Pulwama.
However, the delegation was redirected to Er. Mohammad Manzoor, the District Mineral Officer (DMO), as Mr. Qayoom was unavailable for a meeting. Despite the disappointment, the association appreciated Mr. Qayoom’s gesture and the DMO’s willingness to listen to their grievances.
The delegation outlined the historical significance of stone quarrying in the region, which has been a crucial livelihood source for communities in Wuyan, Khrew, Khonmoh, Shar-I-Shali, Ladhoo, Mandekpal, and other nearby areas of Tehsil Pampore for nearly 150 years. This long-standing tradition supports local families, especially educated youth, by providing essential income and funding for education.
Recent restrictions on stone excavation and crushing have severely impacted the workers’ ability to sustain their livelihoods. Many have defaulted on loans from financial institutions due to halted operations, leading to severe financial strain and difficulties in paying school fees, thus jeopardizing the right to education for their children.
The quarry operators emphasized their adherence to Geology and Mining Department regulations, with permits issued and renewed until June 2019. Since then, quarrying activities have ceased, adversely affecting 70 stone crusher units in the Wuyan area, which are integral to state infrastructure development and employment.
In their memorandum submitted 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 called for measures to restore their operations and address their community’s needs, stressing the urgency for governmental support.
The quarry workers remain hopeful that their situation will be addressed swiftly to secure their livelihoods and ensure educational opportunities for their children.
