Shillong, Aug 10: Based on the regular complaints received from the contractors about non-availability of construction materials especially boulders, stone chips, which have delayed various construction works in the district, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Ram Singh met all stakeholders to discuss and find out ways and means to solve the problem.

The meeting was held at DRDA Conference Hall, Tura.

During the meeting, quarry owners appraised the DC that the formalities required for obtaining licenses to operate their stone quarry, are being delayed in different office in the district and therefore, they are not able to operate their respective quarries.

The Deputy Commissioner informed that the District Administration along with the Superintendent of Police, District Mineral Resources and Forest Officials of the district will facilitate a single window agency for clearance and approval for issuing licenses to the quarry owners, miners, in the district provided they adhere to the guidelines of the Meghalaya Minor Mineral Concession Rules.

Further, in view of the double taxation charged by the department as appraised by owners of the stone quarry, the Deputy Commissioner assured to look into this matter and discuss with the department concerned.

The Deputy Commissioner has also directed the officials of PWD (Roads) in-charge PMGSY to complete all PMGSY roads in the district once the construction materials are available.

He directed the quarry owners to supply the construction materials to contractors and other ongoing construction works in the district. He also instructed the quarry owners to put up sign boards on the roadside to indicate the presence of quarry in the area.

On the request of quarry owners, the Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills has assured to provide night patrolling in border areas and install CCTV cameras for security purposes in order to help check other illegal activities.

Assistant Conservator of Forest, Sachin Gavade, informed that at present there are altogether six quarries operating in the district.

Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills, Dr. R Kumar, Geologist, District Mineral Resources, West Garo Hills, J W Sangma, Assistant Conservator of Forest, DFO (Territorial) Sachin Gavade, Assistant Executive Engineer PWD (Roads) NH Division, J F D Shira, owners of stone quarry, crusher and contractors of the district attended the meeting.