Pulwama, Dec 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) has issued closure notices to 114 stone crushers and 15 brick kilns in Pulwama district for operating without mandatory No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and departmental consent. The move follows increasing concerns over the environmental impact of unauthorized industrial operations in the region.
According to official data, Pulwama district is home to 135 stone crushers and 27 brick kilns, of which a majority are non-compliant. Out of the 135 crushers, only 15 possess valid NOCs, while six have applied for them. The remaining 114 operate without proper authorization. Similarly, out of the 27 brick kilns, only seven have secured the necessary clearances, and five have applied. The remaining 15 brick kilns continue to function illegally.
Bilal Ahmad Khan, Divisional Officer of JKPCC Pulwama, confirmed the action taken against violators. “Closure notices have been issued to 114 stone crushers and sent for final approval to higher authorities,” he stated. He also highlighted that 15 brick kilns had been served similar notices, along with environmental compensation penalties. “The exact compensation amounts will be finalized in a meeting scheduled for January 13,” Khan added.
The crackdown extends beyond stone crushers and brick kilns. Notices have also been issued to four cement factories in the district. In response, one factory has initiated a tree plantation drive, planting 500 saplings, with a commitment to plant 3,000 more to mitigate its environmental impact.
Legal proceedings have been initiated against non-compliant operators at the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Pulwama. “Strict action will follow for those continuing to operate without valid documentation,” Khan emphasized, signaling the department’s zero-tolerance policy towards environmental violations.
The affected areas include Achan Lassipora, Khadermouh, and Wuyan-Khrew, where industrial activities have long been linked to environmental degradation. The JKPCC’s action aims to restore compliance and mitigate the adverse environmental impacts caused by these unauthorized units.
With final approvals for closures and compensation awaited from higher authorities, the department has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the environment through strict enforcement of regulations.