SAND EXTRACTION
While the sand blocks were auctioned and given to many outside firms in Kashmir valley, post easing of lockdown there has been a shortage of sand etc. for the construction work.
The local sand diggers have been appealing the government to provide them short term permits so that they can survive with their families for supplying this sand to construction work across Kashmir.
After the shortage of construction material recently Chief Secretary of UT administration held a meeting and decided that the powers should be given to PRI’s in their respective villages to provide short term permits so that there is no shortage of construction material in the valley.
Government in its latest directive has recommended that the framework for extraction procedure under local self-governance mechanism, along-with sharing of revenue between Geology & Mining Department and PRIs may also be worked out.
Government has asked, Administrative Secretary, Industries & Commerce, to identify 100 locations where PRIs could be given rights for STPs and the department can apply for various permits and clearances on behalf of PRIs, besides providing them logistic support on a pilot basis.
Moreover, the department was instructed to expedite approval of mining plans in all e-auctioned blocks by 20th July, 2020. The Ecology & Environment Department and Pollution Control Board were directed to expedite clearances within the rules.
