Maharashtra's Crackdown on Sand Depots and New M-Sand Policy

Maharashtra's Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced actions against 58 sand depots for rule violations. He emphasized the introduction of a policy on manufactured sand (M-sand) and promised strict enforcement of existing regulations to curb illegal practices and stabilize the construction sector's sand supply.

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has initiated stringent actions against 58 sand depots, citing violations of established rules. In a press briefing on Saturday, he unveiled forthcoming policies to regulate manufactured sand (M-sand), intending to stabilize supply and curb illegal activities.

The minister highlighted that notices were sent to all errant depots, including 57 government-recognized sites. Reports have been solicited from divisional commissioners within three days, and permits of non-compliant depots face imminent cancellation. Specific attention is on Nagpur, where 10 depots have their licenses temporarily suspended pending rectification.

Bawankule stressed the need for oversight, instructing sub-divisional officers to perform inspections and submit reports to district collectors promptly. A new policy introduction aims to establish 50 crushers per district, potentially reducing dependency on river sand and ensuring price consistency for construction projects across the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)