The Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC) is preparing to clear long-pending sand transport and contract dues dating back to the previous YSRCP government, amid mounting pressure from contractors and repeated complaints.
Though the sand policy during the earlier administration was surrounded by allegations of irregularities, the corporation has now decided to examine outstanding payments and move towards settlement.
According to media reports, APMDC Managing Director Praveen Kumar has issued orders constituting a high-level expert committee to study the pending bills and recommend payment mechanisms.
Notably, the committee includes senior officials who were appointed during the previous government and continue to hold key positions, including: Vice-chairman, Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Deputy General Manager (Finance & Accounts), Company Secretary and Audit Department Officer
Between September 2019 and 2021, APMDC directly managed sand sales before handing over operations to private firm JP Ventures.
During this period, allegations emerged that several YSRCP leaders and their close associates secured sand contracts through benamis.
Many transporters and contractors were left unpaid despite revenue inflows to the corporation. Several contractors approached the high court, which repeatedly reprimanded authorities for delaying payments.
While some bills were settled under court pressure, significant dues remain pending. Sources indicate that some pending bills are linked to influential political figures and their aides, making the issue politically sensitive.
The committee’s formation without a full probe into alleged irregularities has become a topic of debate, raising questions about whether financial settlement is being prioritised over accountability.
The development is expected to trigger further scrutiny of sand governance during the previous regime.
