To streamline the sand supply system and increase state revenue, the Bihar government has begun to seriously address the crisis surrounding the auction of sand ghats. In this regard, the Mines and Geology Department has been instructed to identify and prepare a list of 50 such sand ghats (balu ghats) that have not yet been included in the auction process but are considered fully commercially viable.
According to sources, many sand ghats in the state could not be auctioned due to technical, environmental, or administrative reasons. The bidding process for some ghats was also unsuccessful due to their large area or unclear transport arrangements. However, considering their geographical location, sand storage capacity, and local demand, these ghats are considered economically profitable.
Keeping this in mind, the government has decided to review these ghats afresh. In a meeting held at the level of the Director of Mines and Geology, clear instructions were given to prepare a list of 50 such sand ghats where obstacles to auction can be identified and removed.
In this process, points such as the river's flow, the status of environmental clearance, transport facilities, local market demand, and previous auction status will be thoroughly evaluated. The government has also indicated that, if necessary, practical changes will be made to the auction terms to encourage more bidders to come forward and ensure the auction process is successful.
Operating the ghats through a transparent process will also help establish effective control over illegal mining. The operation of these 50 sand ghats is expected to give an impetus to construction work.
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Additionally, it will bring stability to sand prices and generate additional revenue for the state government. The government believes that strengthening the legal and regulated mining system will also provide relief to general consumers and construction agencies.
Once the list is prepared, there is a plan to bring these sand ghats up for auction in a phased manner. This is expected to lead to concrete progress towards resolving the sand supply crisis.
