Chennai: At a time when demand for M-sand (manufactured sand) in the state is growing, builders have demanded the government to open more such units. At present, the state has more than 300 M-sand units.
Sources said that there is a scarcity of river sand all across the state, and it has paved the way for builders and individuals to use M-sand in a bigger way. Another advantage is that the cost of M-sand is considerably low. It is sold between '3,500 and '4,500 per unit.
Vice-chairman of Southern Builders Association of India S. Ramaprabhu, said, “The public works department (sand mining) should also set up a team to check the quality of M-sand. Out of 300 such units, the PWD has certified 48 units as fit.
The PWD should examine sand quality in more number of units.” “We are hopeful that sand scarcity would gradually vanish in the state,” he added.When contacted, a senior officer (sand mining wing) admitted the growing demand for M-sand. “We are aware of the issue and availability of river sand has declined due to water in more rivers in the state. We have already formed a committee to check the quality of M-sand,” the official said. Based on the demand and supply, they would send a proposal to the government for opening more M-sand depots, added the official.
