Silica sand mining proposed in U’kashi; 8 lots identified, auctions underway

Uttarkashi: The Uttarakhand Geology and Mining Department has identified eight silica sand (glass sand) blocks in Uttarkashi district and initiated their auction, marking a shift towards diversifying mining beyond RBM and gravel. Officials said the move is expected to boost local employment and increase govt revenue.Of the eight identified lots in Purola and Mori areas, tenders for four have already been completed, while online auctions for the remaining four are underway. If all blocks are successfully allotted, the district is expected to generate an additional Rs 20 crore annually within the next one to two years, an official said.Silica sand, a key raw material for the glass industry, is primarily found in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Officials said its identification in Uttarkashi is significant for the state’s mining sector.District mining officer Pradeep Kumar said the auction process is progressing at the directorate level. “The exploration of other minerals, including limestone and slate, is also underway to further strengthen the local economy,” he said.Testing has shown silica content in the identified areas to range between 95% and 98.5%, with low iron content, making it suitable for float and optical glass industries.Officials said scientific mining methods will be adopted in the hilly terrain under expert supervision to ensure environmental safety. The initiative is also expected to benefit local businesses, transport services and vehicle operators, while development in mining-affected areas will be supported through the District Mineral Foundation. The district has already recorded Rs 32.28 crore in mining revenue in the financial year 2025–26, the highest so far.