NAGPUR: The construction of Nagpur Metro’s Phase II is facing a new challenge due to a critical shortage of naturally available sand. This has resulted in MahaMetro needing to partially suspend work across all four stretches, thereby slowing down overall progress.
According to top MahaMetro sources, the supply of riverbed sand for ongoing projects is nearly depleted, with the remaining stock likely to last only a few days. “Sand supply has been erratic, and we have had to halt certain work portions mid-way due to this shortage,” stated a senior official from MahaMetro.
Officials noted that the impact of the sand shortage had been masked by delays caused by extended rains, which already hampered construction activities. Additionally, the Diwali holidays and Chhath Puja further diminished on-site work as numerous laborers took leave. With work now back to full capacity, the sand issue has resurfaced, leading officials to seek immediate alternatives.
MahaMetro officials assured that the situation is manageable and that they are finalizing alternative arrangements. “We are optimistic that full-scale construction will recommence soon,” said a senior source.
Efforts to resolve the crisis have been ongoing for the past 15 days. Senior officials reported that they are assessing substitute materials and alternative sand sources to continue construction. “Options like M-sand (manufactured sand) and crushed sand are under consideration, as these can be produced by crushing stones and other natural materials,” explained a senior official, noting that safety and durability tests are in progress before large-scale implementation.
Nagpur district, along with other parts of Maharashtra, has been struggling with a long-standing shortage of natural sand for weeks. This scarcity is impacting various construction and infrastructure projects — from residential developments to significant public works.
Recently, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule indicated that the sand shortage in Maharashtra should ease within the next 15 days. He revealed that the revenue department is prepared for the auction of 350 sand ghats, and over 500 sand depots are now operational across the state. He characterized the shortage as temporary, attributing it to the annual three-month ban on sand excavation (June 30–September 30) imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
Bawankule added that the government is fast-tracking initiatives to boost artificial sand production through the state’s M-Sand Policy to lessen reliance on natural resources. “Each district has been authorized to initiate 50 M-Sand crusher units, and district collectors have been empowered to facilitate their establishment,” he stated, emphasizing that this initiative will serve as a sustainable alternative to natural sand mining in the long run.
