The Karnataka state government is set to introduce the Maralu Mithra mobile application to facilitate the booking and purchase of sand online. Soon, residents will be able to order sand via their smartphones, similar to how they currently purchase everyday goods or clothing. Once released, all Android users will be able to install the Karnataka Maralu Mitra app directly from the Google Play Store.
There will be no service charge for booking sand, and the material will be provided at rates significantly lower than current market prices. Upon the app's launch, the government aims to cap the price of sand at Rs. 1,500 per tonne, which is a major reduction from the prevailing market range of Rs. 3,250 to Rs. 3,500 per tonne.
The Karnataka Maralu Mithra platform will allow users to conveniently book sand, complete digital payments, and schedule home delivery.
Download Karnataka Maralu Mithra Mobile App
Roughly a month following the rollout of the updated sand policy in Karnataka, the state is preparing to launch the Maralu Mithra application. We will provide the official download link as soon as the app becomes publicly available.
Buying and Ordering Sand via Maralu Mitra App
Once the app is live, users can order sand online for direct delivery to their preferred location. Customers will need to submit the following details to complete their purchase:
- Full Name
- Email Address
- Delivery Address
- Required Volume of Sand
- Sand Grade (Coarse, Medium, or Fine)
- Sand Category (River Sand or Manufactured Sand)
Users can input this information into the app to identify the closest supply center. Transportation fees will be calculated automatically based on the distance between the supply point and the delivery destination.
Current Status of Sand Booking in Karnataka
After finalizing an order, customers can monitor the status of their delivery in real-time. The app provides comprehensive visibility into order placement, transit, and final delivery. This system was piloted successfully in the Udupi district during the 2019 fiscal year and is now being scaled for statewide implementation.
Enhancements to the Maralu Mithra App
The state government plans to improve the app by including the specific locations of sand extraction blocks. Officials are also coordinating with transport unions to onboard them onto the platform, allowing for better estimation of logistics costs and pick-up points. This digital transition aims to improve transparency, accountability, and eliminate illegal mining activities across the state.
Key Features of the Maralu Mitra App
The application will integrate with GPS-enabled transport vehicles, using geo-tagging and geo-fencing to prevent black-market sales. The revised policy is designed to align sand supply with actual demand, ensuring that citizens are not impacted by artificial shortages or inflated costs. Traditional sand extraction methods remain permitted in coastal regions under this new framework.