The Tamil Nadu government has announced a three-month ban on transporting gravel, cut stones, M-sand, and other construction materials to neighboring states. This decision aims to address the increasing demand, shortages, rising prices, and concerns about illegal mining and road safety. The ban excludes the Union Territory of Puducherry from its restrictions.
The state has experienced a surge in demand for construction materials due to ongoing infrastructure and housing projects. As a result, the movement of these materials to other states has led to shortages within Tamil Nadu, causing price hikes and disruptions in construction activities. Heavy transportation of these materials has also damaged local roads and contributed to road accidents.
Neighboring states like Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh do not face similar shortages of construction materials. However, the excessive transportation of materials from Tamil Nadu has exacerbated the supply-demand gap within the state. The government aims to curb illegal quarrying and mineral extraction beyond permitted limits, which pose environmental risks.
To prevent further depletion of natural resources and ensure material availability for local projects, the temporary ban will be strictly enforced. District Collectors, Superintendents of Police, and border officials have been instructed to monitor and prevent unauthorized transportation of these materials. Violators of the ban will face legal consequences under existing mining and transport regulations.
