Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly that 527 stone crusher units are currently operating in Jammu and Kashmir, adhering to legal regulations.
Responding to a Calling Attention Notice moved by MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that out of 691 units, 164 are non-functional, including 48 that have been sealed or closed.
He clarified that there has been no significant impact on ongoing development projects due to the non-functional units, as the operational units continue to meet demand.
The Deputy Chief Minister stated that the government has taken measures under the Jammu and Kashmir Minor Mineral Concession, Storage, Transportation of Minerals and Prevention of Illegal Mining Rules, 2016 and the guidelines of the Pollution Control Committee to curb illegal mining and ensure the smooth functioning of crusher units.
He added that units that comply with the regulations are allowed to operate, while those that violate environmental clearances, land-use permits, or pollution control standards have been shut, despite being given adequate time to rectify deficiencies.
Highlighting enforcement, he said that regular inspections are being conducted, and strict action is being taken against violators to ensure environmental protection alongside development.