M-Sand and P-Sand Prices Surge in Tiruchi Region, Construction Sector Hit

The prices of manufactured sand (m-sand), plastering manufactured sand (p-sand), and blue metal have increased sharply in Tiruchi and neighbouring districts, putting additional pressure on the construction industry.

Stone and quarry owners in Tiruchi, Pudukottai, Perambalur, and Karur districts implemented the price revision simultaneously. This is the first such revision since the new state government assumed office.

M-sand and p-sand have become essential for construction work after most sand quarries in the Cauvery and Kollidam rivers were closed in 2017 following an order by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court. Although a few sand quarries operated during the previous regime, they were subsequently shut down in Tiruchi and Karur districts after the Enforcement Directorate conducted raids and found alleged irregularities.

Since then, m-sand and p-sand have become the only viable alternative for the construction industry. Builders and engineers source these materials from quarries in Karur, Perambalur, and Pudukottai districts. The quarries also meet the demand for laying rural and highway roads. Contractors use quarry powder for constructing drains, compound walls, and other structures.

According to industry sources, the price of a lorry load of m-sand (four units) has risen to ₹20,000 from ₹18,000 at the quarry site. Similarly, the price of one load of p-sand has increased to ₹24,000 from ₹22,000. Blue metal prices have gone up to ₹4,000 per unit from ₹3,500. Buyers will have to pay additional transportation charges depending on the distance from the quarries.

The price hike is expected to affect ongoing and upcoming construction projects in the region, including housing, infrastructure, and commercial developments. Industry representatives have expressed concern over the rising input costs and have called for intervention to stabilise prices.