Idukki, 10 Nov (H.S.): A prolonged ban imposed by Tamil Nadu on the transport of quarry products to Kerala has disrupted construction across Idukki’s high ranges, pushing up material costs, delaying public infrastructure projects and threatening the livelihoods of hundreds of workers.

The district’s mountainous areas have depended largely on quarries in neighbouring Tamil Nadu for construction materials. With supplies from these sources coming to a complete halt following the restrictions, contractors are struggling to maintain work schedules and meet commitments under existing agreements.

The shortage has affected several projects, including Public Works Department works and road construction undertaken by panchayats. Delays in securing essential materials have slowed progress, leaving contractors facing uncertainty over when normal supplies might resume.

Materials are now being brought from other districts in Kerala, but at prices reportedly approaching twice the earlier rates. The steep increase has placed an additional financial burden on contractors who accepted projects based on estimates prepared before the supply disruption.

For those working within previously agreed budgets, the higher procurement costs have made execution increasingly difficult. Contractors must now secure materials at substantially higher prices while carrying out projects whose estimates do not reflect the changed circumstances.

The impact extends beyond contractors and project schedules. Prolonged delays are also reducing employment opportunities for hundreds of workers dependent on the construction sector. As activities slow down, the supply crisis is increasingly becoming a livelihood concern for families across the high ranges.

A key demand emerging from the affected sector is for temporary relaxation of stringent restrictions governing existing quarries in the high ranges. Those seeking relief want local supplies made available to ease the shortage and help stalled or delayed construction activities move forward.

Authorities, however, maintain that the restrictions are necessary to prevent illegal mining and ensure environmental protection. Their position highlights the challenge of addressing immediate construction needs while maintaining safeguards in an environmentally sensitive region.

The district administration is seeking an urgent solution through discussions with the departments concerned and contractors. These consultations are aimed at addressing the material shortage and the difficulties confronting ongoing projects.

The immediate challenge is to restore access to affordable construction materials without weakening environmental safeguards. Until a workable arrangement emerges, higher costs and uncertain supplies will continue to weigh on public works, contractors and construction workers throughout Idukki’s high ranges.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman