CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government has intensified its crackdown on irregularities in the state’s mineral resources sector following the change in administration, with a series of surprise inspections exposing widespread violations in quarrying and manufactured sand (M-Sand) production.
State Minister for Mines and Minerals, Prabhu, has been conducting unannounced inspections across several districts, directing officials to seal quarries found operating in violation of mining regulations.
The government has also ordered the mass transfer of mineral resources department officials suspected of failing to prevent or act against illegal mining activities.
The government’s enforcement drive initially triggered a sharp increase in the price of M-Sand, as producers cited disruptions caused by stricter action against black granite quarries. However, the proposed price hike was withdrawn after the minister convened a meeting with industry associations and warned them against exploiting the situation.
At the same time, the government ordered a detailed inquiry into alleged violations committed by M-Sand manufacturing units. According to a senior official from the Department of Geology and Mining, M-Sand is produced by crushing and processing hard black stone to serve as an alternative to river sand, which is increasingly restricted due to environmental concerns.
The Tamil Nadu government has long recommended the use of M-Sand for construction activities as a sustainable substitute for natural river sand.
The official explained that all M-Sand manufacturing units are required to register with the Public Works Department (PWD). These registrations must be renewed periodically, generally every three to five years, to ensure compliance with quality and operational standards.
Tamil Nadu currently has 506 registered M-Sand manufacturing units. However, a recent verification of registration records revealed that nearly 40 per cent of these units -- around 200 factories -- have failed to renew their registrations.
Authorities have also found that many of these units have continued production for more than three years without obtaining the mandatory renewal.
Officials say the lapse raises serious concerns over the quality and regulatory compliance of M-Sand being supplied to the construction sector. Since these units are operating without updated registrations, the government is now examining what legal and administrative action should be taken against them.
The issue was reportedly discussed during a recent high-level review meeting on the functioning of the Department of Geology and Mining, chaired by Chief Minister Vijay.
Officials indicated that enforcement action against M-Sand manufacturers operating without valid registrations is expected to begin shortly as part of the state’s broader effort to restore transparency and accountability in the mining sector.
--IANS
