Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has made it clear to his ministers that irregularities in the implementation of the free sand policy in Andhra Pradesh will not be tolerated. Addressing the ongoing concerns regarding the difficulties faced by citizens in accessing sand, Naidu emphasized the need to fulfill the objectives of the scheme. His stern warning comes in the wake of severe public criticism, as many residents are compelled to spend exorbitant amounts to procure sand for construction purposes.
During today’s cabinet meeting, CM Naidu said, “The free sand policy was introduced to ensure that the purchase of sand does not become a financial strain for those looking to build homes. However, it appears that some brokers have turned this essential resource into a burden,” he remarked. Naidu instructed that any negligence in executing the free sand policy would be met with strict consequences. “I want to see a change within ten days. The real beneficiaries must receive the advantages of the free sand scheme,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister reiterated that sand should be widely accessible throughout the state, calling for the removal of all obstacles impeding its distribution. In a related development, the government has recently approved a proposal to hand over the management of sand reaches to private agencies. This initiative aims to supplement the existing free sand reaches. On October 11, CM Naidu reviewed the sand supply situation and recommended that district sand committees determine the pricing for sand supply, ensuring that no irregularities occur in the process. He ordered continuous monitoring and surveillance to maintain transparency and efficiency.
The Department of Mines has outlined plans to select private agencies through district-wise tenders for managing the sand reaches. This move allows private individuals and organizations to obtain permission from the Department of Mines to initiate their sand mining operations. Currently, the sand reaches fall under the control of the Mines Department as part of the Free Sand Policy. However, with the onset of the rainy season, excavations are on hold, and officials have indicated that even when mining resumes, it may not suffice to meet the surging demand for sand in the region.