J&K Deputy CM Confirms 527 Stone Crushers Operational; Government Prioritizes Environmental Compliance

JAMMU, APRIL 02, 2026: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary informed the Legislative Assembly today that 527 stone crusher units are currently operational across Jammu and Kashmir, operating in strict adherence to established regulatory frameworks.

Responding to a Calling Attention Notice moved by Legislator Balwant Singh Mankotia during the 2026 Budget Session, the Deputy Chief Minister clarified that out of a total of 691 units, 164 remain non-functional—including 48 that have been sealed or closed for failing to rectify deficiencies.

He assured the House that these closures have not hindered ongoing development projects in the Union Territory, as the department remains committed to ensuring a steady supply of construction materials to executing agencies through compliant channels.

The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the government is rigorously enforcing the J&K Minor Mineral Concession, Storage, Transportation of Minerals and Prevention of Illegal Mining Rules, 2016, alongside stringent Pollution Control Committee guidelines.

Units lacking essential environmental clearances or valid consent have been shut down to safeguard public health and local ecology.

By maintaining a balance between industrial growth and environmental protection, the department aims to curb illegal mining while preventing revenue loss.

Choudhary further noted that regular inspections are being conducted to prevent the unauthorized operation of non-compliant units, reinforcing the government’s stance on sustainable development and legal accountability.