Minister for Mines And Geology Galla Aruna Kumari said that that the government has taken a decision, in principle, to follow a lottery system in the auctions of sand reaches, instead of public auctions.
Talking to media persons after a review meeting with the officials of her department, Galla Aruna said that the decision to follow a lottery system was taken adopted to prevent corruption and to maintain transparency. She admitted that sand prices have increased due to the public auction system.
Responding to a question on the illegal mining and transportation of sand, the minister said that from now on, the government would initiate serious action against offending lorry owners instead of drivers.
She added that the government has spelt out clear instructions regarding the supply of sand to houses being constructed under the Indiramma program.
She also said that she had directed officials not to obstruct vehicles of villagers who transport sand for construction activities.
Principal secretary (Industries) Dasari Srinivasulu and Mines director Sushil Kumar also participated in the review meeting. (INN)