Nagpur: Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Wednesday, Mat 14, directed immediate action to ensure free supply of sand (up to 5 brass) for eligible beneficiaries of housing schemes under the Nagpur Division. The directions were issued during a virtual meeting with Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, and Tehsildars across the region.

During the meeting, Divisional Commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari, and the District Collectors and Tehsildars of Nagpur, Wardha, Chandrapur, Bhandara, Gondia, and Gadchiroli were present.

Bawankule emphasized that according to a Government Resolution dated April 30, 2025, sand should be provided without ownership charges from approved sand ghats located within Gram Panchayat areas. This applies specifically to sand ghats that have received clearance from the Ministry of Environment but have not been auctioned.

The Minister stressed strict and prompt implementation of this directive across all districts. He instructed all Tehsildars to conduct meetings within the next 15 days with local MLAs, while District Collectors must coordinate with Guardian Ministers to facilitate the distribution.

Additionally, Tehsildars are required to identify the nearest available sand ghats and issue online passes without requiring applications from beneficiaries. These passes are to be downloaded and delivered door-to-door to the eligible households through Gram Revenue and Village Development Officers within 15 days.

While the ownership charge is waived, a minimum transport fee (Rs 600 per brass) must be collected. The Minister instructed the revenue department to ensure transparent tracking and proper documentation of all sand deliveries.

Bawankule has urged all departments to act swiftly to guarantee the smooth execution of this housing support initiative across Nagpur Division.