M-sand prices double, halting construction in Tamil Nadu

The price of M-sand in Tamil Nadu has doubled in a month, now reaching ₹1,250 per tonne. This surge has led to a significant slowdown in construction projects, with 90% of lorries idle due to rising costs and shortages. The cost of other construction materials has also increased, with blue metal rising to ₹1,000 per tonne and P-sand to ₹1,500 per tonne. The restrictions on quarrying hours have contributed to reduced M-sand production, impacting both public and private sector projects. Only a few of the 4,000 M-sand crusher units in the state have received quality approval, affecting production. The government is working to streamline the sector and has issued quality certificates to 460 manufacturers, with more applications under review.