PANJIM, NOV 1
The response to the short tender notice issued by the Tourism Department for removal of M V River Princess has been pretty good with nine bidders filing their bids for removal of the ill-fated ship, which has been grounded off-Sinquerim beach for last 10 years now.
The technical bids were opened today afternoon while financial bids will be opened at later date after the committee examines the technical bids and short-lists the most eligible bidders even as the government is running short of time in face of High Court directive.
The deadline fixed by the High Court to actually start the work on removal of the grounded vessel ends on November 7.
Speaking to reporters Director of Tourism Swapnil Naik said they would do their best to finalise the bidder to meet the deadline set by the High Court.
However, with just three productive days left in hand, it appears impossible that the department will be able shortlist the technical bidders.
Apparently, the government will have to seek more time from the court to complete the process of selection of the bidder as it will also need time to examine financial bids.
Interestingly, this time too, Salgaocar Mining Industries Pvt Ltd (SMIPL) which had last time declined to tender Performance Guarantee of Rs 10 crore has filed its bid.
So also, M/s Jaisu Shipping, Gujarat which was granted tender for removal of the vessel two years ago, but had failed to remove it within the stipulated period of 180 days has once again filed the bid.
Titan Maritime (SEA) Pvt Ltd, Singapore which was shortlisted by the government last time along with Madgavkar Salvage has also filed its bid.
M/s Madgavkar Salvage & Smith Salvage – Goa is also in the race this time.
One of the top salvage companies from UK, Resolve Salvage & Fire Europe Ltd, UK is also one of the bidders.
As stated in the tender notice the vessel is required to be removed within shortest possible and preferably before the onset of the monsoon in June 2011.
Experience to carry out the works, equipments they intend to mobilise for the job, the methodology proposed to be used without causing any environmental damage and time frame for the start and completion of the work are some critical conditions, the committee will examine to select technical bids.
If required the government will relax conditions of financial bid but there will be no dilution of conditions pertaining to technical bid, clarified the tourism director.
The department is optimistic in getting the vessel removed before the next monsoon.
‘Even if the work starts in December we will be able to get the vessel removed,” he added.
