Curb unchecked escalation of prices for construction materials: MP Khatana

Srinagar, July 13: Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP) Er Gulam Ali Khatana has expressed deep concern over the unchecked escalation of prices for essential construction materials in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a statement, the MP highlighted a growing problem that threatens to undermine affordable housing initiatives and burden the average consumer. Khatana specifically pointed out the exorbitant prices of sand and crushed stone, claiming that a “mafia” is charging up to four times the government-fixed rates for these materials. “This price gouging, he argues, is causing significant distress among the general public and particularly affecting beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), a flagship housing scheme of the central government,”he said.

The MP emphasised the stark reality faced by PMAY beneficiaries, stating that it has become increasingly difficult for them to purchase construction materials within the financial assistance provided by the government. He noted that media reports are replete with instances of overcharging, indicating a widespread and systemic problem.

Khatana called upon the Mining Department and all Deputy Commissioners in the Union Territory to take immediate action to curb these practices. He stressed the importance of enforcing government-fixed rates and preventing exploitation by unscrupulous elements in the construction material supply chain.

Highlighting the significance of affordable housing in the national agenda, the MP referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s commitment to ensuring housing for all. He mentioned that on the first day of his third term, PM Narendra Modi signed first file related to PMAY beneficiaries, underscoring the scheme’s priority and PM care for the citizen of our country.

Khatana argued that it is now the administration’s responsibility to ensure these services reach the masses without hindrance, and that unchecked overcharging for building materials is hampering the PMAY scheme’s effectiveness. The MP's statement serves as a call to action for local authorities, particularly the Mining Department and Deputy Commissioners, to step up their efforts in preventing overcharging. He questioned why the public should face such problems when authorities have already fixed the rates for these materials.