Wuyan, Khonmoh, Shar-I-Shali, Ladhoo, Mandekpal, and Adjacent Areas, Tehsil Pampore – For nearly 150 years, the residents of these regions have depended on stone quarries and crushing units for their livelihood. Established by their ancestors to meet basic needs, this industry has been the backbone of their economy, passing down through generations. In today’s era, where job opportunities are scarce, many educated youth rely on these quarries for income, making the industry crucial for the livelihood and education of children in these villages.
Historically, Wuyan’s metal (WBM, WMM) has been recognized and sanctioned by the government as a primary component for road pavement. This not only underscores the quality of the material but also highlights the significant contribution of these areas to the government’s revenue through royalties and other charges.
However, in recent years, the stone quarrying and crushing industry has faced severe challenges. Frequent restrictions have been imposed on quarry workers and crusher unit owners, hampering their ability to operate effectively. This has led to severe economic distress for those involved, with many unable to meet basic needs or repay loans, resulting in their loan accounts turning non-performing (NPA). The inability to pay school fees is also obstructing children’s education, a fundamental right.
Despite their adherence to the regulations set by the Geology and Mining Department, including obtaining short-term permits for minor mineral extraction up until June 2019, the quarry holders have been barred from continuing their work post-2019. This restriction has adversely affected around 70 stone crusher units, which have been operational in the Wuyan area for five decades. These units represent significant investments and play a vital role in the state’s infrastructure development, providing direct employment to a large number of people.
Ab. Rahim Khanday, President of the Quarry Association Wuyan (Regd. No: 1163), and Farooq Ahmad Wani, Sarpanch of Wuyan, have actively sought support. In a recent conversation with Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, a Malaysian-returned entrepreneur, social and political activist, the plight of the quarry workers and crusher unit owners was discussed. Dr. Bhat has reached out to Sh. Manoj Sinha Ji, The Honorable Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, appealing for intervention on humanitarian grounds.
The local communities hope that their memorandum, submitted via email for kind consideration and favorable orders, will bring much-needed relief and allow them to continue their age-old tradition of stone quarrying, ensuring their livelihoods and the welfare of their families.
