Kurnool:Roads and Buildings and Investment Minister BC Janardhan Reddy expressed his commitment to revive the black limestone industry in Banaganapalle constituency. During his visit to the hunger strike camp at Bandarlapalli check post of Koligundla mandal on Monday, the minister expressed solidarity with the workers, mine and factory owners and vehicle drivers who have been protesting for five days. The black limestone quarry workers have gone on strike demanding removal of the consideration fee imposed by the mining authority.
Highlighting the industry’s current woes, Minister Janardhan Reddy cited decisions taken during the previous government, which included increased royalty and DMF charges. He assured the stakeholders that their concerns will be brought to the attention of the government and that they will provide extensive support to address the financial difficulties.
The Minister criticized the Rayalasi Minerals Association for not taking immediate action when the fee hike was introduced, which led to the current crisis. He urged mine owners to cooperate with the government and ensure compliance, pointing to issues such as under-reporting of production to evade royalties.
The minister emphasized his commitment to the welfare of the sector while recalling the compensation given to the farmers when the cement owner purchased the land during his tenure. He claimed that from 2014 to 2019, more than one crore was allocated for village development in Kolimigundala mandal. The minister then participated in the Ursu and Gandham festival organized by the Muslim minority at the old bus stand in Banaganapalle.