Shortage of black stones: Construction sector in crisis

KOCHI: The construction sector in Kerala is facing a severe crisis due to the shortage of black stones. The reduction in the number of operational quarries within the state and the obstruction of shipments from other states at border checkpoints have worsened the situation. The soaring prices of materials like metal, stone dust, and M-sand have deepened the crisis.

Out of 686 licensed quarries in the state, only 260 are currently operational. As a result, despite the high cost, the construction sector has been heavily dependent on black stone imported from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. However, many of these truckloads are now being blocked at the borders, citing the lack of proper permits.

With the shortage of black stone, many construction projects have been forced to concrete their basements instead. Builders say this method is more expensive, increasing the cost by up to Rs 2 lakh for a 2,000 sq. ft building compared to using black stone.

Widespread illegal stone extraction
Due to the shortage, illegal stone extraction has become rampant in private lands and plots. Stones are being broken using acid, which reportedly reduces their durability, according to builders.

• Palakkad: Over 50 quarries (the highest in the state)
• Alappuzha: Currently no operational quarries

Current prices of construction materials (compared to last year):

Black Stone (per 150 cubic feet load): ₹8,500 (₹6,500 last year)
Metal (per load): ₹12,000 (₹9,000)
M-Sand: ₹14,500 (₹12,000)
Steel Rods (per kg): ₹64-67 (₹59)
Cement (per bag): ₹360-420 (₹350-400)

"Issuing licenses to legally compliant quarries can solve the black stone shortage."
— N.K. Babu, State President, Mining and Crushing Owners Association