The recent e-tendering process for Bhumidhari leases in the Billi-Markundi mining area has left farmers distressed in Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra district. With 23 leases being auctioned at significantly higher rates, the surge in gravel prices has raised concerns among both the mining sector and the general public.
The sharp rise in ballast costs is expected to impact construction expenses across the state, making it harder for people to build homes affordably. The e-tendering system, introduced for transparency in lease allocation, has instead led to outsider interference, pushing bid amounts beyond farmers’ reach.
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Previously, Bhumidhari mining leases were granted to farmers at government rates after securing no-objection approvals from relevant departments, including revenue, forest, and pollution control. However, in the latest tendering process, external bidders have driven up prices, leaving farmers feeling deceived.
Ajay Kumar Singh, President of the Dala Billi Crusher Owners Association, has urged authorities to exclude Bhumidhari mines from e-tendering and instead implement a fixed royalty system, similar to the double-rate royalty applied in sand mining.