With the stringent election code of conduct now enforced, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) finds itself at a standstill regarding the appointment of a new contractor for the crucial task of cement concretisation (CC) of roads in south Mumbai. This delay spells further frustration for citizens who must now endure an additional six months before any road improvement initiatives can commence.
Despite the termination of the Rs 1,687 crore CC road contract for south Mumbai nearly five months ago, BMC’s efforts to initiate new tenders have yielded no progress. Following the termination of the contract with Roadways Solutions India Infra Limited (RSIIL), BMC promptly floated new tenders in the hopes of securing a replacement contractor. However, the municipality has yet to finalise any agreements, leaving the crucial roadwork in limbo.
Compounding the issue is the implementation of the election code of conduct, which prohibits the awarding of new contracts during this period. Consequently, there is little prospect of CC road works commencing until September of this year, leaving citizens to contend with subpar road conditions for the foreseeable future.
Despite promises from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of pothole-free roads within two years, the reality on the ground paints a different picture, particularly in south Mumbai where road work has yet to commence. Previous assurances from BMC Commissioner Chahal regarding the expedited process of floating new tenders have failed to materialise, with officials citing ongoing delays in the tendering process.
As frustrations mount and citizens continue to endure the inconvenience of deteriorating road conditions, the BMC faces mounting pressure to expedite the procurement process and ensure the timely commencement of much-needed road improvement projects. Failure to do so not only impacts the quality of life for residents but also reflects poorly on the municipality’s ability to deliver essential infrastructure upgrades in a timely manner.
