Amid lockdown, I&C allows operation of stone crushers

Jammu : The Department of Industries & Commerce with a view to ensure supply of construction material viz. Sand and Stone Aggregate especially for ongoing development projects allowed the operation of Stone Crushers in Jammu and Kashmir. It may be pertinent to note that in pursuance to notification No: 40-3/2020-DM-I(A) dated March 14, 2020, of Government of India regarding measures for containment of COVID 19 in the country, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (State Executive Committee) notified Standard Operating Procedure vide order No. 44-JK (DMRR) of 2020 dated April 17, 2020 for regulating activities of industries/industrial/commercial/private establishments in J&K.
As per the Standard Operating Procedure, projects like development /construction and other works of Industrial estates have been allowed at 3 (c) (v), Brick Kilns in J&K have already been allowed. The Government of J&K has allowed some select additional activities for resumption of construction activities during the lockdown period by the construction departments.
The representatives of Industry have highlighted the necessity of operation of Stone Crushers to meet the demand of sand and aggregate. Industries & Commerce Department examined the issues and allowed the Stone Crushers as covered under government order to operate subject to fulfillment of all requisite norms as prescribed by the Government of J&K for operation of Stone Crushers.
Director Industries & Commerce, Jammu, Anoo Malhotra and Director Industries & Commerce Kashmir, Mahmood Ahmad Shah issued separate orders for operation of Stone Crushers in their respective Divisions subject to fulfilment of norms prescribed by the Government of J&K for running such units.
Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department, M.K Dwivedi expressed the hope that with the operation of Stone Crushers, the supply chain of construction activities for development projects shall be ensured. He also emphasized the need for ensuring social distancing and safety measures in the unit premises to avoid violation of the guidelines issued in this regard.