Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has decided to cancel the tendering process for two major infrastructure projects—the Thane-Ghodbunder to Bhayandar tunnel and the elevated road—collectively valued at ₹14,000 crore.
This decision follows scrutiny from the Supreme Court regarding the transparency and fairness of the bidding process. The projects aimed to enhance connectivity between Thane and Mira-Bhayandar, featuring a 5-kilometre twin tunnel and a 9.8-kilometre elevated road over Vasai Creek. These initiatives were part of the broader Mumbai Coastal Road project, intended to alleviate traffic congestion and promote sustainable urban mobility. The tender process came under legal challenge when Larsen & Toubro (L&T), a prominent infrastructure firm, alleged irregularities in the evaluation of bids. L&T contended that it was excluded from the financial bidding stage without being informed of the status of its technical bid, raising questions about adherence to Public Works Department and Central Vigilance Commission guidelines.
The Supreme Court, expressing concern over the lack of transparency, questioned the rationale behind disqualifying a company with a proven track record in executing large-scale projects, including the Central Vista and Atal Setu. The Court emphasized the importance of transparency in public procurement, especially when significant public funds are involved. In response to the Court’s observations, MMRDA, represented by senior legal counsel, informed the bench of its decision to scrap the existing tenders in the larger public interest. The authority indicated that the Maharashtra government would determine the future course of action regarding these projects.
This move underscores the critical role of judicial oversight in ensuring accountability and fairness in public infrastructure development. It also highlights the necessity for robust and transparent procurement processes to maintain public trust and ensure the efficient use of resources. As Mumbai continues to pursue ambitious infrastructure projects to meet the demands of its growing population, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding principles of transparency, equity, and sustainability in urban planning and development.
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