The Hon. Anton Jayakody

¶ 01 Hon. Member, you are raising the issue of forged transport permits. As a Ministry we have discussed this with the relevant Authority to conduct raids regarding permits that are clandestinely printed and used for transport, and also to consider how to issue secure permits. A separate committee has discussed this and we will announce measures shortly and take the necessary steps.

¶ 02 Hon. Member, a specific controlled price for sand has not been set at present. This problem adversely affects consumers, contractors and companies in the construction sector. A few weeks ago I instructed the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau to publish the State levy applicable to sand. It has not yet been published; I will look into it. Currently a State levy of Rs. 600 is charged per cubic meter, which is about 7 percent, while the general yard price per cubic meter is around Rs. 8,500. In addition, transport charges by tipper/lorry are levied depending on distance.

¶ 03 Therefore, that is how the price is determined. However, for public awareness we will very soon issue a media statement specifying the State levy on sand and the yard release price per cubic meter.