Q and A: ‘To check price hike, govt should supply us cement’

There has not been any increase in raw materials’ price in recent times. However, cement price per bag have increased from Rs 330 to Rs 430. In AP, a bag costs only Rs. 280. The cement industry refuse to explain the reason. Some manufacturers stock the cement for summer when the demand will be higher. Though the budget has given many relaxations, the hike will wipe off the benefits.

The government should talk with manufacturers to control the prices. During J Jayalalithaa’s rule, it was controlled through a fixed price scheme. As Amma Cement supply stopped, government can procure the cement from the manufacturers and supply to us at minimal cost. Also the government should import cement.

The rising cost of river sand is another issue. Though the government promotes M-Sand, there is not enough supply. If the government promotes M-Sand, it will result in the decreasing demand of the river sand and save natural resources. There are 50 lakh unorganised employees depending on the real estate industry. Any decision taken in regard to the industry would affect them.