The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has cancelled tenders for two major development projects in Vijayawada after unqualified contractors participated in the bidding process.
Projects Affected
The cancelled tenders include the construction of side drain canals from Ramavarappadu Ring Road to Enikepadu in both directions and a subway at Ranigarithota along NH-16 in the Krishna Lanka area. The underpass near Ranigarithota was estimated at Rs 3 crore, while the drainage system from Ramavarappadu Ring Road to Enikepadu had an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore.
Reason for Cancellation
Vidyasagar, project director of the NHAI Vijayawada Project Implementation Unit (PIU), stated that the tenders were originally floated in March but were cancelled after the technical evaluation found only one qualified bidder. Since there was only a single qualified bidder, the tenders for both projects were cancelled. Fresh tenders will be invited at the earliest.
Impact on Road Safety and Drainage
The proposed underpass at Ranigarithota was aimed at improving road safety. Currently, residents have to cross the busy highway to reach the veterinary hospital, leading to frequent pedestrian accidents. The absence of a grade-separated crossing at Ranigarithota has been blamed for several pedestrian deaths, often involving students, elderly residents, and hospital visitors who are forced to navigate high-speed traffic on NH-16, significantly increasing accident risk.
Meanwhile, Ramavarappadu continues to face severe waterlogging even during light rains due to inadequate drainage infrastructure. With the cancellation of tenders, the resolution of both issues is expected to face further delays, causing concern among residents. The delays are also expected to result in revised project costs due to rising material and labour expenses.
Residents' Concerns
Local residents have expressed disappointment over the delay, as both projects are critical for safety and quality of life. The underpass would have provided a safe crossing for pedestrians, while the drainage system would have alleviated chronic waterlogging. The NHAI has assured that fresh tenders will be issued soon, but no specific timeline has been provided.
