The closure of most Stone Chips (Gitti) mines in West Singhbhum’s Novamundi block has created problems for both workers and the construction sector, with the supply of stone chips coming to a halt in several areas. Government and private projects have slowed down, while hundreds of workers who depended on the mines for their livelihood have been left without regular work.
Construction Projects Faced Material Shortage
As Stone Chips becoming difficult to procure on time, road construction and other development projects have been affected. Local demand for construction material is not being met regularly, and the shortage has also increased project costs. Transporters associated with the Stone Chips trade have also been affected by the closure of the mines. Several workers have reportedly migrated to other states in search of employment. The situation has raised concerns in the mining-dependent villages, where mining had earlier provided a steady source of income to many families.
Mine Closure Changed Livelihood in Nearby Villages
The Stone Chips mine, for instance, was closed in 2023. After its closure, the operator removed the crusher plant and other machinery from the site. What remains are employee quarters and large pits created during mining. During the monsoon, these pits fill with water, and local villagers have started fish farming by collecting contributions of around Rs. 500 each.
Expired Leases Added to the Problem
According to the mining department, leases of several Stone Chips in the Novamundi area have expired. The lease of a mine operated by Inhar Karim at Papahad ended on 13th August 2025, while the lease of Trust Line Mining and Minerals at Kadjamda expired on 17th January 2026. The leases of Trust Line Dealers Pvt Ltd and CTS Industries expired between January and March 2026, while the mining lease of Nilesh Kumar Singh ended on 7th January 2026.
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Experts and local industry representatives said many of the mines fall under “No Mining Zone” restrictions, making fresh mining leases difficult. In such circumstances, renewal of existing leases has emerged as the main option for restarting operations.
Industry Demanded Government Intervention
Local industry representatives have warned that prolonged closure could lead to a serious shortage of construction material in Novamundi and nearby areas. They said that a Government initiative on lease renewal and mining-related permissions could help restore the supply chain and employment.
For workers, however, the issue goes beyond the availability of construction material. The closure of mines has removed a major source of local employment, making the revival of lawful mining activity and alternative livelihood opportunities an important concern for the affected villages.
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