From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Jan 28: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah informed the State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday that the Government has banned manufacture of "filter" sand and promised to take legal action will be initiated against those indulged in filter sand extracted from fields.

In a reply to Govinda Karjol (BJP) during the question hour, the Chief Minister said inter-state transportation of sand would be regulated by setting check posts on the State borders.

However, there was no regulation in the movement of sand from one district to another in the State, he clarified.

Replying to questions raised by several members, Siddaramaiah said despite attempts to crack down on the unlawful activity, the business thrives and filter sand extracted from fields, dried up ponds rivulets in different parts of the State and continues to make way to urban centres.

This is a serious menace and the state government is determined to clamp down on it by taking tough action, he said.

Admitting that the recent strike by sand transporters has pushed the demand and cost of sand, Siddaramaiah said the prices would come down in the next few days.

The price of sand crossed Rs 1 lakh per truck load during the strike.

The lorry owners’ association, which called the strike, has accepted the newly formulated sand policy of the State government, he said.