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DIPHU — The Sand Mahaldars Supplier Association (SMSA) has informed that illegal sand mining has disrupted the uniformity of sand rates, with illegally mined sand being sold to Dimapur at prices lower than those fixed by SMSA.
President of SMSA Jackson Kramsa emphasised during a press conference at the SMSA office in Manja on Tuesday that stopping illegal sand mining is necessary to establish uniformity in sand rates.
Kramsa stated that after thorough discussions and meetings with all sand mahals, they categorically fixed the sand rates. Those who procure sand from nearby mahals will pay INR 13,000 per 400 cft, while those sourcing from farther away mahals will pay INR 11,000 per 400 cft.
He noted that for sales in Dimapur, SMSA generally fixes prices after discussions with the Sand Stockiest and Suppliers Union, Dimapur (SSSUD). However, he expressed concern that certain suppliers without valid documents have disrupted the market rates for an extended period, prompting SMSA to maintain a flexible stance.
SMSA vice president Harsing Hanse mentioned that there is widespread illegal mining in the sand business and that SMSA has been actively working to contain it.
He said that some suppliers extract sand illegally and sell it to Dimapur at lower rates, resulting in the depletion of sand in Karbi Anglong and environmental degradation.
According to him, the mahaldars are now unable to pay their dues and fees to the concerned department due to the disruption of sand rates by the suppliers. Hanse added that sand must be purchased according to the fixed rates.