Mohali Deputy Mayor Slams Rs 1,000-Crore Joint Tender, Says It Sidelines Local Contractors
In a significant development, Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi has strongly condemned the issuance of a massive joint tender worth over Rs 1,000 crore in Mohali, Punjab. The tender, which bundles works under roads, horticulture, sanitation, public health, electricity, and allied sectors, has sparked intense controversy, with Bedi calling it detrimental to the interests of both Mohali and the broader state economy.
Allegations of Bias Against Local Contractors
Bedi alleged that the tender process is designed to sideline local contractors and labourers, dealing a direct blow to Punjab's economic landscape. He pointed out that an earlier tender worth Rs 1,004 crore had allowed Punjab-based contractors to participate through joint ventures. "However, when it became clear that local contractors could secure the work, the tender was cancelled without any valid justification," he claimed.
The Deputy Mayor further noted that the tender value was subsequently reduced to Rs 786 crore and has now been increased to around Rs 792 crore, with the opening scheduled for January 31. "The eligibility conditions are framed in such a way that no contractor from Mohali or Punjab can apply independently. This clearly indicates that the tender has been tailor-made to favour a particular company," he asserted.
Concerns Over Quality and Project Management
Bedi criticised the bundling of diverse works, stating that no single company can be an expert in civil works, horticulture, sanitation, roads, footpaths, and electricity simultaneously. "This will compromise quality and may seriously affect the city's cleanliness and maintenance," he warned.
He also raised concerns over the appointment of a new Project Management Consultancy (PMC) to oversee the project, alleging that it could lead to irregularities in payments and reporting by bypassing existing officials. Bedi highlighted long-term risks, noting that if the contractor abandons the project midway, re-tendering would be difficult, potentially leaving Mohali's roads in a dilapidated condition.
Call for Prioritising Infrastructure Needs
Bedi emphasised that if Rs 500–Rs 1,000 crore is to be spent, priority should be given to replacing Mohali's nearly 50-year-old sewer system, which he described as outdated and frequently choking, causing repeated problems and financial losses. "Once roads are rebuilt, the question will again arise about the sewerage. Therefore, the sewer system must be fixed first," he said.
Additionally, he pointed out that Mohali has been without a dumping ground for solid waste management for roughly two years. "Garbage is scattered across the city, leading to health hazards and damaging Mohali's image. GMADA should address this issue before issuing such massive road tenders," he added.
Legal Action and Public Appeal
Calling the tender "unnecessary and harmful," Bedi urged citizens to unite and raise their voice to protect Mohali. He asserted that he would take every possible legal step against the tender and, if required, would knock on the doors of the court. Bedi also alleged that despite GMADA selling land worth thousands of crores in Mohali, the city has received no tangible benefits and is even facing fund shortages for basic schemes like pensions.
