CCTV cameras now must for trucks ferrying sand in state

MUMBAI: Trucks ferrying sand are now mandatorily required to be fitted with CCTV cameras having memory card/chip while transporting sand from sand block/creek block to the sand depot.
The state revenue department early this week issued a Government Resolution (GR) with comprehensive guidelines for vehicles ferrying sand. This follows the Bombay high court directives to put in place guidelines to regulate sand mining.
The CCTV cameras are to be fitted such that they clearly capture the entire trolley of the transporting vehicle. The vehicle’s registration number is to be written on the camera. “The CCTV camera should also capture/video record the route and must be connected to the control room/main server which would be under the direct supervision of the local Tehsildar,” read the guidelines.
If there are unusual stops or diversion, the vehicle must be intercepted and action taken, states the guideline. If the driver does not have the requisite vehicle pass, excavation of sand should be considered as illegal. tnn