Thousands rendered jobless as stocks end
The small quarry owners have been on strike demanding norms relaxation and exclusion from environmental clearance since September 14
KOZHIKODE: The two-week long quarry strike has paralysed the construction industry in the district with most stockists running out of building materials.
Construction of houses and large buildings has stopped rendering thousands of workers jobless.
The tipper lorries and the cement bricks manufacturers are also adversely affected.
Building essentials like boulders, manufactured sand and metal are not available in the market as the quarry strike continued for more than 14 days.
“We have no work. Materials are not available and the works have been stopped," said Shinod K., a mason.
"The dealers had stocked up the materials expecting the strike, but all the existing stock has exhausted and there is no fresh supply.”
Shortage of materials also hit several government projects. Sources said it could delay the runway re-carpeting works of Calicut International Airport as well.
Construction majors have also stopped their works. Thousands of migrant labourers are affected as they have to sit without any work. Many have gone to enjoy the ‘vacation’.
The small quarry owners have been on strike demanding norms relaxation and exclusion from environmental clearance since September 14.
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy had held negotiations with the strikers but to no avail. Tipper lorry owners are also planning to go on strike, to express solidarity with quarry owners.
“Once they also go on strike, whatever work that is happening now would be stopped. Families of the construction labourers will be suffering,” said Jayesh M., another worker.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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