In a significant move to support economically weaker sections, the Odisha government has announced free sand distribution for beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that eligible households will receive two tractor loads of sand at no cost, helping to reduce construction expenses and accelerate housing development.
“We are making necessary arrangements to ensure that beneficiaries receive the sand without any financial burden,” Minister Pujari stated, adding that the government will issue permits for distribution to regulate the process.
To prevent damage to rural roads, heavy vehicles such as Hyva trucks will be restricted from sand transportation. Instead, smaller vehicles will be deployed to safeguard infrastructure, particularly roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is currently being drafted to streamline sand transport regulations.
The initiative has been widely appreciated by social welfare organisations, with many praising its potential to enhance affordable housing access and ensure sustainable construction practices.
