Amaravati ( Journalist File ) : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has repeatedly warned that strict action will be taken against any illegal activities related to the free sand policy. Despite these warnings, reports indicate that some individuals are disregarding the guidelines, with allegations of brokers illegally diverting free sand to neighboring states.
In response to these reports, police authorities have intensified their vigilance and implemented drone surveillance to monitor the illicit transportation of free sand. Vijayawada Police Commissioner Rajasekhar Babu announced that drone cameras have been deployed to keep an eye on illegal activities that threaten the integrity of the free sand policy.
He further revealed that Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras have been installed at stockyards and check-posts, with real-time footage being transmitted to the command control center. GPS systems have also been linked to tipper trucks to facilitate constant monitoring by officials. The Commissioner instructed his team to ensure that no illegal stockpiling or transportation of sand occurs.
Rajasekhar Babu emphasized that any unauthorized sand dumps identified or illegal transportations reported would result in legal action under relevant laws.
In a recent development, the government issued new orders waiving the seigniorage fee associated with the free sand policy. Principal Secretary of the Mines Department, Mukesh Kumar Meena, issued a Government Order (GO) detailing that construction requirements for sand could be fulfilled without any charges.
The orders, stemming from a meeting held on October 21 regarding the sand policy, clarify that no fees are to be charged for sand required for construction. Measures have been outlined to enhance sand availability and implement changes to the current sand policy, including the establishment of stockyards in districts where sand is scarce. The government also highlighted the need for robust checks at GPS locations and check-posts to prevent illegal transporation of sand.
These proactive measures reflect the government's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its free sand policy and ensuring that resources are used responsibly.
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