Malaysian sand shipment to TN to be delayed

A senior official said, “We expected the vessel to reach the port here  on Thursday. However, it will start sailing after weather condition improves in Malaysian waters.” 

The Department of Mines (Sand), Public Works Department (PWD), is in-charge of importing sand to the State. “Although contractors have started using M-sand for construction purposes, we are anticipating a good demand for the imported river sand in the local market. After sample tests of the Malaysian river sand, engineers have found that it is pure and there will be minimum wastage only.”

In addition, each consignment will be tested for its quality before being sold to consumers across the state. “The department will fix the rate which will be lower than the prevailing market price,” he added.

The State government has made it clear that the imported sand will be delivered only at Kamarajar Port Limited at Ennore, Adani Kattupalli Port Private Limited and VO Chidambaramanar Port in Thoothukudi. PWD will market the sand to the contractors after prohibiting private players from making any direct purchase from overseas.

In the State, the river sand is sold at Rs 150 per cubic feet to Rs 200 per cubic feet.