Maharashtra finalises SOP for M-Sand Policy, ‘Aims to stop river sand mining completely,’ says minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule

According to Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, with the SOP now in place, there will be no obstacles in implementing the policy.

Providing an alternative to sand is essential to safeguarding the environment. Therefore, efforts are underway to stop sand mining from rivers completely in the future,” Bawankule said on Wednesday.

Ensuring sand availability for construction and simultaneously curbing illegal sand transportation are critical for environmental protection, Bawankule said.

The GR stated that the auction process would be conducted for land parcels up to five acres. However, individuals or entities found guilty of illegal mining or transportation will be barred from participating in the auction. Proposals must include a ‘Consent to Establish’ certificate from the Pollution Control Board, a No Objection Certificate from the planning authority, an Industry Base Registration Certificate, and necessary permissions under the Maharashtra Minor Mineral Extraction Rules, 2013.

The SOP provides guidelines for local authorities on implementing the policy that is meant to encourage the use of M-Sand as an alternative to natural sand to maintain the environmental balance of rivers.

M-Sand is manufactured by crushing hard stone rocks into sand-sized particles.

As per the SOP, existing quarry leaseholders can also apply through the ‘Mahakhanij’ system for M-Sand production. Upon government approval, the old quarry lease will be cancelled, and a new M-Sand quarry lease will be executed, said the resolution.

M-Sand unit holders must apply separately for concessions from the Industry Department. The first 50 projects in each district will be eligible for concessions from the Revenue and Industry Departments. A secondary transport permit will be mandatory for the sale and transportation of M-Sand, the GR stated.

Unit holders must establish the unit within six months and obtain a ‘Consent to Operate’ from the Pollution Control Board before starting production. The Deputy Collector will serve as the nodal officer for the implementation of this policy.