The tenders had raised several eyebrows in Margao as they were valued at below Rs 5 lakh to bypass the e-tendering process.
While MMC has re-examined the tenders, Margao’s Civil Society again criticised the Council for allowing the tenders to enter through the back door. The Civil Society underlined certain points in the agenda of an MMC meeting that indicated the passage of the tenders.
“A company has sponsored the installation of sign boards, and it has been mentioned as a point in the agenda. This means MMC was supposed to spend money from the funds for a job that can be done for free through sponsorships,” says activist Nelson Fernandes, adding, “Our objection was apt as it has saved Rs 4.78 lakh. This agenda point proves they have something to hide.”
Meanwhile, the constant pressure has forced MMC to re-examine the tenders and opt for e-tendering. Chief Officer Y B Tawde stated, “The re-examination and revaluation has been done by clubbing some tenders, and they will be put for tendering. Until the vigilance complaint is decided, there will be a status quo on the e-tendering procedure.”
It is known from the MMC Engineering Section that 40 percent of the tenders will have to be re-tendered due to the re-examination and revaluation. However, the works won’t be completed in this Council’s term as they take more than a month for approvals.
