Increasing Sand Supply and Revenue Targets
Telangana Govrnment issued Guidelines for Sand Contractors and Transport Agencies to meet rising demands and improve revenue generation, sand contractors must significantly increase the quantity of sand transported from the excavation sites to stockyards. Contractors are mandated to double or triple the supply within the designated timeframe, ensuring compliance with government norms and industry standards.
Additionally, sand contractors must actively contribute to boosting government revenue, with a specific goal of doubling earnings by the fiscal year 2025-26. Failure to adhere to these directives will lead to severe consequences, including contract termination and blacklisting by the Telangana State Mineral Development Corporation (TGMDC).
Stockyard Entry and Exit Protocols
For improved logistics and security, sand movement at stockyards and excavation reaches shall be restricted to a single entry and exit route. This measure aims to streamline transportation, enhance monitoring, and prevent unauthorized access, ensuring a smooth supply chain.
Revised Booking System for Transport Lorry Owners and Agencies
As part of the government’s initiatives to optimize sand distribution, booking allocations for transport agencies and lorry owners have been increased. The enhanced booking system enables more operators to access and transport sand, creating equitable opportunities for all stakeholders in the sector.
Expanded Booking Timings for Public Accessibility
Recent reforms have led to a revision in the online booking schedule:
- Until recently, online bookings were available only in limited slots at 12 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM.
- From February 12 and 13, 2025, booking slots were extended to be available from 10 AM to 5 PM.
- Starting February 14, 2025, online booking has been made available 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock accessibility for contractors and transport agencies.
Regulatory Inspections to Prevent Illegal Sand Mining
To combat illegal sand extraction and unauthorized transportation, intensified inspections have been implemented across all districts. District Collectors, Superintendents of Police (SPs), and other regulatory authorities conduct three-shift monitoring around the clock to curb unlawful activities.
Measures to Curb Unauthorized Sand Extraction
Authorities have reported multiple instances where illegal excavation and transport were taking place in different stream orders (I, II, III, IV, V, and VI levels). These violations include:
- Unauthorized sand reaches operating outside designated excavation zones.
- Illegal transportation of sand from 11 PM to 6 AM using unregistered lorries.
Strict Enforcement Against Illegal Sand Transport
To tackle these challenges, various measures have been implemented, including:
- 24-hour surveillance to detect and deter unauthorized sand movement.
- Seizure of illegally operating excavators and lorries caught transporting sand without proper documentation.
- Increased patrols and checkpoints to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Advanced IT Solutions for Sand Mining Regulation
To align with the Chief Minister’s vision for a transparent and efficient sand mining system, a high-tech surveillance and monitoring system will be introduced within 30 to 45 days. These measures aim to eliminate human intervention and prevent illegal activities through automated tracking solutions.
Key Technological Implementations
- High-Mast HD CCTV Cameras – Covering a 1-km range for round-the-clock surveillance.
- Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) – Ensuring that all sand transport vehicles are tracked in real-time.
- Unmanned Weighbridges – Automating weight verification without manual oversight.
- GPS and RFID Integration – Mandatory for all tippers and sand transport trucks.
- Command Control System – A centralized unit monitoring all sand extraction and transportation activities.
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) Cameras – Identifying and recording vehicle details to prevent unauthorized transportation.
- Boom Barriers at Checkpoints – Restricting unauthorized vehicle entry and enhancing security.
Conclusion: Ensuring Compliance for a Sustainable Sand Supply Chain
The government’s initiatives to streamline sand mining operations, regulate transportation, and enhance security will benefit both contractors and the public. With stricter monitoring, enhanced booking systems, and cutting-edge technology, the sand mining industry is set for greater efficiency, transparency, and revenue growth. All stakeholders, including contractors, transport agencies, and law enforcement, must collaborate to uphold these new guidelines and ensure a fair and sustainable sand supply chain for the future.