MP News: Indefinite Strike by Ballast Mine Dealers Halts Construction Supply Chain in Madhya Pradesh

An indefinite strike launched by ballast mine dealers in Manawar on Saturday has brought the supply of essential construction materials to a standstill, severely affecting infrastructure projects and local businesses across Madhya Pradesh. More than 10 mine owners have suspended operations in solidarity with the Bhopal Ballast Mine Federation's demands, triggering a ripple effect on the state’s construction ecosystem.

Construction Work Comes to a Halt

The strike has caused a complete disruption in the availability of ballast and other mineral materials crucial for construction. Contractors and suppliers report that they have been unable to source these materials for the past three days, halting private and public construction projects alike.

“The market has come to a standstill. Deliveries are delayed, laborers are sitting idle, and deadlines are slipping,” said Rakesh Meena, a contractor from Indore. “If this continues for a week, we’ll see losses running into lakhs.”

Industry Stressed, Government Revenue at Risk

According to Abhay Sogani, president of the Mine Association, around 2,000 stone crushers and mines operate in Madhya Pradesh. He noted that the industry has already been struggling due to operational challenges and unclear government policies. The current strike, he warned, will further reduce production levels and result in a loss of government revenue from royalty and taxes.

Dealers Put Forward Five Demands

The striking mine dealers have presented five key demands to the state government, including:

Abolishing stamp duty on increased royalties in mining plans

Accurate land delineation using satellite surveys

Enhanced geo-tagging and mapping by the Mineral Department

Collaborative monitoring with the Revenue Department

A crackdown on illegal excavation caused by outdated or inaccurate survey data

Dealers argue that current systems often misrepresent mine boundaries, leading to disputes and unintentional illegal mining.

Call for Gujarat-Like Reforms

Local trader Pankaj Godha emphasized the need for reforms similar to those implemented in Gujarat. He advocated for a joint campaign by the Mineral and Revenue Departments to update mine records and prevent legal and operational ambiguities.

Business and Public Brace for Long-Term Impact

With infrastructure and housing projects at risk of delays, real estate developers and consumers alike are bracing for cost escalation and prolonged timelines. Public works, such as roads and government buildings, may also face significant setbacks if the deadlock continues. 

The Madhya Pradesh government is yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Meanwhile, industry stakeholders and affected citizens await a swift resolution to avoid long-term damage to the construction sector and the state economy.