TN Govt Identifies 14 New Sand Quarry Sites, Awaits Environmental Clearance

In a push to stabilise the construction material supply chain, the Tamil Nadu government has identified 14 new sites across the state for setting up sand quarries, pending mandatory environmental clearance.

The initiative, led by the Public Works Department in coordination with the Department of Geology and Mining, follows a statewide assessment to address rising demand and tackle illegal mining. Geological surveys and feasibility studies have guided the selection of these sites to meet regional construction needs, especially for infrastructure projects.

Officials say the quarries will not be operational until they receive approvals from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and comply with Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board norms. Public consultations and environmental impact assessments are also planned to address concerns raised by local communities and environmentalists.

“The identification of these 14 new sites is a step toward sustainable sand mining,” said a senior Geology and Mining Department official. “Operations will strictly follow environmental standards, with transparency and accountability.”

The move responds to sustained pressure from the construction sector and lorry owners’ associations to reopen and expand sand quarries. Stakeholders have complained about overpriced sand and unstable supply impacting project schedules.

The state reaffirmed its determination to stem the overloading of trucks and impose environmental protection, including the safety of riverbeds and ecosystems. Authorities expect the initiative to generate employment while promoting regulated and legal sand mining practices.

The government will release detailed timelines and site-specific plans once environmental clearances are granted.