Mumbai: In a bid to fast-track development works in rural areas, the state govt has shortened the notice period for tenders to be floated for various projects. The relaxation will only be effective from Sept 15-Dec 31.
Usually, tenders worth more than Rs 100 crore have to be floated for at least 25 days, but this has now been reduced to 21 days. For those valued Rs 25 crore-Rs 100 crore, the period has been shortened from 25 days to just 15 days, and tenders worth Rs 50 lakh-Rs 25 crore to just eight days from 25 days.
A govt resolution by the rural development department said the Centre has given instructions on issuing work orders for approved projects under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana phases 2 and 4 before Sept 30. “It is necessary to complete the tender process of various development works in rural areas under Maharashtra Rural Road Development Corporation on time and start the works in reality... For administrative and public interest, the matter of giving a short notice period in connection with short-term e-tendering was under consideration,” it said.
Contractors’ associations questioned the move. “The decision is clearly suspicious and has been made with a specific intention. There is no election in the state now. So, the model code of conduct will not be applicable. Therefore, there is no need to immediately issue an online tender in any way... There is a plan to manage all tender processes by telling well-wishers to participate,” said Milind Bhosale, president of Maharashtra State Contractors Federation and State Engineers Association.
