Builders pick M-sand over imported sand

Sources said that nearly 500 loads of imported river sand are being transported from the port to various parts of the State every day. Working president of Tamil Nadu Sand Lorry Owners' Association S Yuvaraj said, "I have sold nearly six loads of imported river sand to the customers in the last few months. All the buyers were involved in the construction activities of individual commercial complexes or houses in and around the city. The builders are not showing any keen interest in purchasing the sand for their projects."

The builders cite affordability and high quality of M-sand as reasons for its high popularity among the fraternity.

Vice-president of the Builders Association of India (BAI), S Ramaprabhu, said, "M-sand is sold around Rs 65 per cubic feet in the market. While the same quantity of river sand is sold for nearly Rs 150. This will further rise up when transportation charges are factored in."

"The city builders are also purchasing river sand from the PWD (Mines), but only when the clients insist upon using the Malaysian sand for the project," Ramaprabhu added.

Given its quality, the M-sand is especially used for setting up high grade concretes during the construction. "This manufactured sand is used in projects such as flyover. The quality of sand is far more superior over the imported river sand."

Recently, the PWD had authorised nearly 60 manufacturers for selling the M-sand across the State. In turn, the builders can procure a desired quantity of sand from the sub-contractors who have tied up with these vendors.

However, the State has 300 manufacturers with more than 1,000 suppliers doing a brisk business. The builders' community claim that strict regulation of unauthorised builders will help in curbing illegal activities.