TN Govt to take stern action against illegal sand quarrying

Chennai, Aug 2 (UNI) The Tamil Nadu Government today warned of stern action against those who indulged in illegal sand quarrying in the State.

Following reports that there were a lot of irregularities in sand quarrying and sale, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi held detailed discussions with officials and instructed them to take stern action against those who commit irregularities, whoever they may be, an official release here said.

The Government thought of directly involving the Public Works Department in sand quarrying and sale, but it was felt that other works in the State would come to a standstill if the PWD personnel were directly involved in the work.

Hence, it was decided to maintain status quo, but initiate strict measures to prevent any illegal activity. Stern action would be taken against those who tried to carry the sand without making payment to the government, the release said.

The officials, especially those from the revenue, public works and police departments, should keep a strict vigil on those who tried to cheat the government and ensure that sale of sand was proper and public get sand at a cheaper price, the release added.

UNI