IMPACTS OF STONE CRUSHING OPERATIONS IN NATURAL WATERWAYS IN AZAD JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The operation of stone crushing machinery in natural waterways, such as Nalas and streams in Azad Kashmir, presents significant environmental and public health challenges that warrant urgent attention. The region, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity is increasingly facing the adverse effects of industrial activities, particularly stone crushing. The dust generated by these machines can contaminate adjacent water bodies, adversely affecting aquatic ecosystems and rendering water unsafe for human consumption. This contamination disrupts the delicate balance of aquatic life, threatening species that are vital to the region’s ecological health and poses serious risks to communities that rely on these water sources for drinking, irrigation and fishing.

The mechanical disruption caused by crushing operations contributes to soil erosion, loss of arable land and degradation of natural landscapes. In Azad Kashmir, where agriculture is a source of livelihood, the removal of vegetation and alteration of land contours associated with these activities exacerbate erosion, leading to sedimentation in waterways. This sedimentation can further degrade water quality and aquatic habitats, impacting fish populations and other aquatic organisms. The loss of fertile land diminishes agricultural productivity, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and the food security of local populations. Furthermore, the visual and ecological degradation of landscapes can diminish the aesthetic and recreational value of these natural areas, impacting tourism and local economies that depend on the region’s natural beauty.

Moreover, the continuous operation of stone crushing machines generates elevated noise levels, which can disturb both local communities and wildlife. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to stress, sleep disturbances and other health issues among residents. Wildlife, particularly species sensitive to sound, may experience disruptions in their natural behaviors, including feeding, mating and migration patterns, which can have cascading effects on biodiversity. The unique flora and fauna of Azad Kashmir are at risk, as these disturbances can lead to habitat loss and decreased species diversity.

These health issues not only affect workers directly involved in stone crushing but also impact nearby residents who may be exposed to airborne pollutants. In Azad Kashmir, where healthcare resources may be limited, the burden of these health issues can be particularly severe. Moreover, airborne pollutants linked to these operations have been correlated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, further compounding public health concerns. Direct contact with dust can lead to skin irritations and ocular infections among workers and nearby residents, highlighting the need for protective measures.

The deposition of dust on agricultural crops can diminish productivity, adversely impacting communities reliant on agriculture and fishing. Reduced crop yields can lead to economic hardship for farmers and food shortages for local populations, exacerbating poverty and social inequality. The interconnectedness of these environmental and health issues underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to mitigate the impacts of stone crushing operations.

In Azad Kashmir, the role of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Environmental Protection Agency (AJK EPA) has been important in addressing pressing environmental issues, including those arising from stone crushing operations. The AJK EPA is responsible for enforcing environmental regulations and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. In the past, the agency has successfully implemented various initiatives aimed at improving air and water quality, raising public awareness about environmental protection and promoting sustainable practices among industries.

For instance, the AJK EPA has conducted awareness campaigns that educate local communities about the importance of environmental conservation and the potential health impacts of pollution. The EPA has also imposed regulations and ensured the implementation of mitigation measures during the operation of machinery. These efforts have fostered greater community engagement and participation in environmental monitoring, leading to increased accountability among industrial operators.

To effectively manage the impacts of stone crushing operations, the field team has been strictly monitoring these activities. However, it is even more imperative for the AJK EPA to implement stringent regulations governing the placement and operation of stone crushing units, particularly in proximity to water bodies. These regulations should include laws that restrict the establishment of new crushing units in ecologically sensitive areas and enforce compliance with environmental standards.

The agency’s proactive approach in the past, such as collaborating with local stakeholders and conducting environmental impact assessments, has laid a foundation for more sustainable industrial practices. By building on these positive initiatives, the AJK EPA can further enhance its role in protecting the environment and public health in Azad Kashmir.
The mandatory installation of water sprinklers and dust suppression systems in these facilities can significantly mitigate dust emissions, improving air quality for both workers and nearby residents. The AJK EPA should also conduct regular inspections and monitoring of stone crushing operations to ensure adherence to environmental regulations and to assess the impact of these activities on local ecosystems and public health. Regular health screenings for workers and residents in affected areas are essential for the early detection and management of health issues. These screenings can help identify respiratory conditions and other health problems associated with exposure to dust and pollutants, enabling timely intervention and treatment. Furthermore, educating local populations about the risks associated with stone crushing activities is crucial for fostering awareness and promoting community health. The AJK EPA can play a pivotal role in this educational outreach, providing resources and information to empower communities to protect their health and environment.

Fostering community engagement in monitoring and reporting regulatory violations is another critical step toward safeguarding public health and the environment. Empowering local residents to participate in environmental oversight can enhance accountability and ensure that stone crushing operations adhere to established regulations. Community-led initiatives can also promote sustainable practices and encourage the adoption of alternative livelihoods that do not compromise environmental integrity.

RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES:

In addition to efforts, the adoption of best practices and mitigation measures can substantially enhance environmental protection and public health in Azad Kashmir. Implementing globally endorsed approaches will not only help align the region with effective standards but also foster sustainable development while minimizing the adverse impacts of stone crushing operations.

One important step is the employment of advanced technologies that minimize emissions and waste generation from stone crushing activities. This includes the use of enclosed crushers, dust collection systems like bag filters and wet suppression techniques. Enclosed or semi-enclosed crushing units can significantly reduce dust emissions, while fabric filters or electrostatic precipitators can efficiently capture fine particulate matter. Moreover, the application of water mist or sprinklers on conveyors, stockpiles and crushers can effectively suppress dust without excessive water consumption.

Another important measure is the adoption of systematic environmental monitoring practices. Establishing continuous air quality monitoring stations around crushing sites can facilitate the early detection of pollutant peaks, enabling timely mitigation actions. Monitoring noise levels around operation sites is also essential to ensure compliance with permissible limits, thereby mitigating noise pollution impacts on local communities and wildlife.
Proper site selection and operations planning are vital as well. By following international zoning and land-use guidelines for industrial activities, stone crushing units can be sited away from residential areas, sensitive ecosystems, and water bodies. Creating buffer zones planted with native vegetation can serve as natural barriers to dust and noise spread. Moreover, scheduling operations during daytime can help reduce noise disturbances during night hours.

Waste management and recycling practices play a significant role in minimizing environmental degradation. Utilizing stone crushing byproducts for construction aggregate, road base material or landscaping can reduce waste accumulation. Proper management of waste materials by segregating recyclable and non-recyclable fractions aligns with sustainable resource use standards.

Ensuring worker safety through the mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is another critical aspect. International standards emphasize the importance of PPE such as N95 respirators, goggles and protective clothing for workers exposed to dust. Regular training and health surveillance are essential for the early detection and prevention of occupational diseases like silicosis.

Engaging local communities in decision-making processes regarding the location and operation of stone crushing units fosters transparency, trust and cooperation. Community advisory panels or environmental committees can play a vital role in monitoring compliance and addressing grievances effectively.

Capacity building and training programs for machinery operators, site managers and regulators based on international guidelines can enhance technical expertise and enforcement capacity. Access to global knowledge-sharing platforms can keep local stakeholders updated on innovations and compliance strategies.

Finally, encouraging stone crushing operations to adopt Environmental Management Systems (EMS) frameworks, such as ISO, can help systematically manage environmental risks, improve regulatory compliance and foster continuous improvement of environmental performance.

By incorporating these international mitigation measures, Azad Kashmir can effectively reduce the environmental and health impacts associated with stone crushing operations. These strategies, tailored to local socio-economic and geographical contexts, will ensure that economic development proceeds alongside environmental sustainability and community well-being.