CM Naidu Unveils New 'Free Sand' Portal

Vijayawada:Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has asked officials to provide people the facility for all 24-hour sand booking for construction purposes.

The sand portal system needs to be updated so that anyone can book sand from anywhere at any time, Naidu stressed on Thursday as he launched the new portal as part of the Andhra Pradesh Sand Management Policy for free distribution of sand.

During the event held at the state secretariat, the chief minister made several recommendations to the officials.

When the officials told him that the sand is booked and made available only for the next day, Naidu said this should, from now on, be extended to a week.

Naidu called for transparency so that every needy person can receive sand under the government's free sand policy. There should be no inconvenience to the local residents in nearby villages, vis-a-vis the sand from small rivers and streams, he said.

The chief minister called for regulations, allowing these people to take sand for their personal needs without any charges. But, take all measures to prevent illegal transportation and mining, making the vigilance system robust, he told the officials.

Mines minister Kollu Ravindra said, “We are setting a precedent for third-party inspections regarding sand supply. Every aspect will be closely monitored by a third party from time to time. The new sand portal will have constant surveillance at various stages, ensuring that no one, from officials to transporters, can err.”

He said district-level committees led by collectors will regulate local systems for the respective districts. The portal will show details like supply points, transportation charges, and availability of stocks every day for each district.

“The portal provides a way to check collection of excessive charges in the name of transportation by truck owners, transporters and intermediaries. We are empanelling trucks for transportation. Problems faced by the public regarding free sand can be reported through the toll-free number 1800-599-4599 or by email dmgapsandcomplaints@yahoo.com and action will be taken on every complaint, based on feedback from district collectors,” he said.

Mines and geology principal secretary Mukesh Meena said linking of GPS with sand transport lorries will help curb illegal transportation. A feedback mechanism is being prioritised, and responses from users will be taken regularly through IVRS calls.

Mines director Praveen Kumar told the CM that CCTV surveillance is being maintained at sand export centres. District-level committees have been assigned appropriate responsibilities and powers, he added.

CMO officials and mines officials participated in the portal unveiling event.