Terrain-based Stone Quarrying and Its Socio-economic Impacts in Churachandpur District, Manipur, India

Abstract

Stone quarrying in hilly environments is influenced by terrain, geological conditions and accessibility, while also providing employment to community’s dependent on extractive activities. This study examines the spatial characteristics of stone quarrying and the socio-economic conditions of quarry workers at seven selected sites in Churachandpur District, Manipur, India. Primary information was collected from 100 quarry workers through structured questionnaires, personal interviews and field observations. Geographic information system and remote-sensing techniques were used to analyse quarry locations, elevation, slope and accessibility. The selected quarry sites occur in rugged terrain associated with the Churachandpur-Mao Fault zone. Mean elevations of the sites range from 1,001 to 1,169 m, while mean slopes range from 14° to 17° and maximum slopes exceed 40° at all sites. Labourers constitute 37% of respondents and stone-crusher workers 34%, indicating substantial dependence on manual quarry-related employment. Income varies among occupational groups, with contractors reporting higher daily earnings than labourers, loaders and stone-crusher workers. Positive correlations were observed between age and work duration (r = 0.58) and between work duration and income (r = 0.47). Field observations and reported injuries indicate exposure to hazards associated with steep terrain, loose rocks, machinery, blasting and inadequate protective measures. The findings highlight the interrelationship between terrain characteristics, quarry-based livelihoods and occupational vulnerability and indicate the importance of improved safety practices and terrain-sensitive quarry management.