J&K Govt forms panel to revive stone quarrying at key locations

Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has set up a high-level committee to work out modalities for reviving customary stone quarrying at Panthachowk in Srinagar, Saderkoot Bala in Bandipora, and other designated areas.Headed by the Special Secretary of the Mining Department, the panel comprises representatives from the Forest, Revenue, Jal Shakti, Rural Development, Geology & Mining, University of Kashmir, and J&K Pollution Control Committee.The committee will study the legal framework, assess environmental concerns, explore administrative mechanisms, and recommend sustainable, community-sensitive approaches for quarrying operations. It has been directed to submit a detailed report with recommendations within 30 days.