TURA: The West Garo Hills administration has decided to start a single window agency for approval of licences to quarry owners and miners in the district in the wake of delays which have affected construction works.
West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Ram Singh met all stakeholders at DRDA Conference Hall in Tura on Thursday evening following repeated complaints from contractors about non-availability of construction materials like boulders and stone-chips.
During the meeting, quarry owners told the DC that formalities required for obtaining licences are being delayed that has affected quarrying.
Singh said the district administration along with the SP, district mineral resources and forest officials would facilitate a single window agency provided quarry owners adhere to the guidelines of the Meghalaya Minor Mineral Concession Rules.
Further, in view of the double taxation charged by the department as informed by the owner of a stone quarry, the deputy commissioner assured to look into the matter, which would be discussed with the department concerned.
Singh also directed officials of PWD (Roads) in charge PMGSY to complete all roads in the district once construction materials are available. He also directed quarry owners to supply materials to contractors.
Quarry owners were also asked to put up sign boards near roadside to indicate the presence of a quarry in the area.
As per the request of the quarry owners, the SP ensured to provide night patrolling in border areas and also to install CCTV cameras for security reasons which will also help to check other illegal activities.
According to Assistant Conservator of Forest, Sachin Gavade, at present there are altogether six quarries operating in the district.
