The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has put a significant tender process on hold, creating potential delays for crucial civic services. The move came after objections were raised during the qualification stage for two major tenders floated by the corporation's garden department.
Massive Tender Values for Garden Upkeep
In December 2025, the AMC's garden department initiated the process to empanel agencies for two essential services. The combined value of these tenders was substantial, amounting to Rs 140.22 crore for a three-year contract. The financial commitment could rise even higher, reaching Rs 235.70 crore if the contracts are extended to a full five-year term.
Breakdown of the Tender Components
The two tenders covered distinct but vital areas for maintaining Ahmedabad's green spaces. The first tender was for the supply of tractor-trolleys, valued at Rs 16.17 crore over three years. The second, and larger, tender was for garden labour supply, pegged at Rs 30.97 crore for the same three-year period. Together, they formed a comprehensive plan for the city's horticultural maintenance.
Process Halted by Commissioner After Objections
The tender process, however, did not proceed smoothly to finalisation. During the crucial qualification stage for the bidders, certain objections were raised. In response to these concerns, the Municipal Commissioner of AMC intervened and ordered a halt to the entire process. This administrative pause was implemented to review the objections thoroughly and ensure transparency and compliance with all regulations.
Consequences and Potential Service Delays
The immediate effect of this suspension is a delay in the finalisation of the contracts. This postponement potentially impacts the timely supply of essential garden maintenance services across Ahmedabad. The AMC now faces the task of resolving the objections and deciding whether to restart the process, modify the tender conditions, or explore alternative procurement routes to avoid prolonged disruption in services.
The situation highlights the complexities involved in large-scale civic contracting and the importance of rigorous checks and balances in public procurement to ensure fairness and value for money.
