Kochi, Kerala: The Union government has decided to initiate offshore sand mining near the Kollam coast in collaboration with the private sector.

The decision involves mining in a 242 sq km area at three locations near the seashore, with an estimated 302 million tonnes of sand available for extraction. Tenders have been invited from interested companies to participate in the project.

The government plans to undertake offshore sand mining through three ways and has established guidelines for the process. Recently, a workshop was held in Kochi as part of this mining initiative.

The first mining site is located 27 km from the Kollam seashore, the second 30 km away, and the third 33 km offshore. A total of 100 million tonnes of sand can be extracted from these three locations.

As per the amendment brought by the Centre in 2023, the right to sand mining from deep seas is confined to the Union government, and they will acquire 10% of the selling price. The course of action for tenders will commence by the 27th of next month.

"Kollam Bank is one of India's regions rich in aquatic life, primarily due to its 1.5 meters of deep mud, which supports biodiversity. However, the mining process will remove the surface mud, potentially harming the fish," said the president of Kerala forum of traditional fishermen.