East Godavari District Collector P. Prashanthi and SP Narasimha Kishore emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the new sand policy, set to take effect from September 11. During a review meeting with district sand coordination officials, the Collector stressed the strict enforcement of regulations, installation of surveillance systems, and the need to register sand transport vehicles with the transport department.
The district has identified nine new de-siltation reaches in Vadapalli, Aurangabad-1, Aurangabad-2, Errinamma, Kovvur, Dondagunta, and two points in Dhavaleshwaram and Rajamahendravaram Kotilingalu. The new free sand policy, as per state government directives, will begin on September 11, with measures to prevent overcharging, intermediary interference, and unnecessary vehicle delays.
Transport vehicles will be allowed to operate from 6 AM to 6 PM. A new system will be implemented to cross-check user details to prevent illegal sand transport, with monitoring from village-level committees, police, and SEB officers. The Collector announced the installation of CCTV cameras and biometric systems at sand reaches.
SP Narasimha Kishore highlighted strict action against illegal sand storage and transportation, warning that any officials involved would face legal consequences. Checkposts will be established to monitor the transportation process.
Officials from various departments, including Joint Collector S. Chinna Ramudu and Sub-Collector Ashutosh Srivatsava, participated in the meeting.
