Construction Material Prices Skyrocket in Tamil Nadu, M-sand Rises by 40%

The construction industry in Tamil Nadu is facing a significant challenge as the prices of essential materials like M-sand and gravel have seen a steep increase. Over the past month, the cost of M-sand has risen by 40%, now priced at ₹3,000 per unit, while gravel has reached ₹4,800 per unit. This sharp escalation is creating financial strain on builders and developers, potentially stalling several construction projects across the state.

According to the Tamil Nadu Sand Lorry Owners Association, the primary cause for the price surge is a shortage of these materials. M-sand, a key alternative to natural river sand, has become increasingly expensive due to rising demand and limited supply. Similarly, gravel prices have surged due to inadequate availability and transportation bottlenecks. These factors have not only disrupted the construction sector but also increased the overall cost of infrastructure development.

Industry experts warn that this price hike could have a ripple effect on real estate projects, including affordable housing schemes and government infrastructure initiatives. Many small and medium-scale builders are already struggling to manage their budgets, with some projects facing delays or cancellations.

The Tamil Nadu Sand Lorry Owners Association has called for immediate government intervention to address these issues. They have urged authorities to ensure the uninterrupted supply of M-sand and gravel by streamlining production and distribution processes. Additionally, they highlighted the need to regulate prices to prevent further escalation, which could severely impact the construction sector and the state’s economy.

With construction materials accounting for a significant portion of project costs, the rising prices could also affect end-users, leading to increased property prices. Stakeholders across the industry are hopeful for a swift resolution to avoid long-term repercussions.

The ongoing crisis underscores the importance of sustainable resource management and the need for alternative solutions to meet the growing demands of Tamil Nadu’s construction industry.