Baramulla, Aug. 12 -- Construction activity across Baramulla district has slowed amid an alleged shortage of sand, gravel and stone, with contractors, labourers, transporters and house owners reporting project delays, rising costs and loss of work.

Stakeholders said the availability of construction material had declined in several areas, affecting both government and private projects. They alleged that material available in the market was being sold at higher prices, further increasing construction costs.

Local contractor Manzoor Ahmad Ganai said the shortage had made it difficult to complete projects within agreed timelines.

"We have labourers sitting idle because material is not available. Even when we manage to arrange it, the price...