Mangalore, Apr 3 (DHNS): As per the uniform sand mining policy 2011, the process of inviting tender for sand mining was decided in a meeting chaired by the Deputy Commissioner Subodh Yadav here on Saturday. The uniform sand mining policy came into force throughout the State from Saturday. 

 The DC said as many as 117 blocks have been identified in the district. Each block is 10 acre. With this, about 20.68 metric tonne sand will be available. As per the rules, tender will be invited for disposing the sand. He directed the PWD Superintending Engineer to see that those who are engaged in traditional sand mining should not be affected while implementing the new policy.

The office-bearers of sand mining and transportation association said that 80 per cent of the sand mining is carried out manually. The new sand mining policy will affect atleast 25,000 labourers who are directly or indirectly involved in sand mining. To which the DC directed the officials to look into the matter and take steps in this regard. As no sand mining will be held after March 31, 2011, it will affect the construction activities in the district. A decision on the same will be taken after holding discussion with the senior officials, he assured.

Zilla Panchayat CEO P Shivashankar, Mines and Geology department Deputy Director Ravindra, Assistant Commissioner Prabhulinga Kavalikatti, Puttur AC Dr Harish were present.