Kerala is to import sand from Malaysia, Vietnam and Cambodia to meet its growing demand in the realty sector. The sand will be brought through Kochi port.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The Government expects to reduce river sand mining which is having a disastrous environmental impact.

The Central Government has sanctioned import of sand through Kochin port, authorities said.

According to a statement, Kerala requires 3 tonnes of sand annually. The mining and geology department issue permits to person interested in importing sand.