Nagpur: In a bid to regulate sand mining and address environmental concerns, the Maharashtra Government has unveiled a new sand extraction policy and invited public objections and suggestions until February 7, 2025. The policy aims to curb illegal excavation, ensure fair distribution, and promote ecological sustainability, while balancing the demands of the construction sector.
State Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping the final policy. “This policy will eliminate theft, guarantee immediate sand availability, and prioritize villagers and builders. We aim for full transparency in its implementation,” he stated.
Gold Rate
Monday 02 March 2025
Refining the sand supply system
The government’s new framework builds upon past models, including depot-based and auction-based systems, both of which faced logistical challenges. During 2023-24, the state experimented with a depot-based system to streamline supply but encountered operational inefficiencies. Now, the government plans to refine its allocation mechanisms to prevent shortages and ensure transparency.
Artificial sand to replace riverbed mining
A key highlight of the proposed policy is a major push toward artificial sand in public infrastructure projects. Given the dwindling natural sand reserves and environmental concerns, the Public Works Department (PWD) and Water Resources Department (WRD) have been directed to mandate artificial sand use in all future projects. The government envisions a complete transition to artificial sand by 2028.
Additionally, large-scale mining operations producing overburden sand and minor minerals will be required to integrate these materials into the supply chain, reducing reliance on riverbed mining. The policy also proposes stricter regulations on inter-state sand transportation to curb illegal exports and control cross-border trade.
Public participation invited
To ensure transparency, the draft 2025 Sand Extraction Policy has been published on rfd.maharashtra.gov.in and mahakhanij.maharashtra.gov.in. Citizens, environmental groups, and industry stakeholders can submit objections and suggestions via mahakhanij.maharashtra.gov.in or email deskkha1-sandpolicy@mah.gov.in by February 7, 2025. The government has made it clear that only feedback received within this period will be considered before finalizing the policy.
With sand mining remaining a contentious issue, the new policy aims to strike a balance between development needs and environmental preservation, setting the stage for a more sustainable future in Maharashtra.
