Telangana Irrigation Minister T Harish Rao today told the Assembly that the State government would deal with the sand mafia in the State with an iron hand and crush it.
Replying to a question in the House, the minister pointed out that soon after the TRS had assumed power in the State, the government had introduced a new sand policy, as a result of which not only were the prices in check, there was also availability of sand for the poor for constructing their houses.
Recalling how in the past sand had become a scarce commodity for construction activities and also saw a steep rise in prices, Rao said the stringent steps by the TRS government had now ensured availability of sand in plenty to all sections of the people for construction purposes, and at at nominal prices.
He also vowed that his government would not spare anybody indulging in illegal mining or transporting sand in the State.
"We will crush the sand mafia with an iron hand," he declared.