Maharashtra Mandates Use of Artificial Sand in Government Construction Projects
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Maharashtra government approves policy to promote artificial sand (m-sand) in construction. |
| Date | May 13, 2025 |
| Objective | Reduce environmental degradation, promote sustainable construction, boost local industries. |
| Key Highlights | - Mandatory Use: M-sand compulsory for all government and semi-government projects. |
| - Crusher Installation: 50 crusher machines per district; 1,500 statewide. | |
| - Land Allotment: State land leased for m-sand crushers on first-come, first-served basis. | |
| - MSME Status: Companies in m-sand production to receive MSME recognition. | |
| - Royalty Reduction: M-sand royalty fixed at ₹200 per brass (vs. ₹600 for natural sand). | |
| - Transition Period: Existing stone crushers must shift to m-sand production in 3 years. | |
| Environmental Focus | - Conserve rivers and coastal ecosystems. |
| - Rocky terrain used for stone extraction; pits to be converted into water conservation ponds. | |
| - Aligned with National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandates. | |
| Background | - NGT banned coastal sand mining in 2014; partially lifted in 2016. |
| - M-sand is made by crushing hard rocks (e.g., granite) for uniform and strong construction. |