33 Raiyat Families Back Mining Project, Citing Jobs and Local Development; Others Seek a Halt
Key Points:
- 33 raiyat families have offered their land for the proposed stone crusher and mining project
- Project supporters submit memorandum to Deputy Commissioner seeking approval and local jobs
- Opponents cite environmental and livelihood concerns; supporters allege vested interests behind protest
JAMSHEDPUR — A proposed stone crusher and mining project in Kanku village of Patamda block has sharply divided the local community, with one group demanding that the approval process be halted and another actively lobbying the district administration for the project to proceed.
Villagers supporting the industry submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner arguing that the area was economically backward and that large numbers of local youth were being forced to migrate to cities in search of work. They said the establishment of the stone crusher and mining industry would create employment and help check this outmigration.
According to the pro-industry group, as many as 33 raiyat families have already made their land available for the project. Among those who signed the memorandum were raiyats Hari Singh Mahato and Jamini Mahato. Supporters said the industry would benefit local youth through direct employment and would also bring improved roads, electricity and other basic infrastructure to the area.
They further argued that the project would boost local trade, increase government revenue and improve the overall standard of living, including better access to education for children in the village. The group also demanded that roads leading to the proposed industrial site be strengthened and that local youth be given priority in employment once the project becomes operational.
However, another section of villagers has opposed the project, citing concerns about its likely impact on the environment and daily life. They have demanded that the approval process be put on hold. Supporters of the project, in turn, alleged that the opposition was being driven by antisocial elements acting out of personal interest rather than genuine community concern.
Patamda block falls under East Singhbhum district and is considered one of the more economically underdeveloped areas in the Kolhan region. Stone crusher and quarrying projects in Jharkhand have frequently generated similar community disagreements, with development needs on one side and environmental concerns on the other.
