Probe Low Bidding for NMC Tenders, Demands Congress Nagpur: The controversy surrounding unusually low bids for civic projects has escalated as Opposition leader Sanjay Mahakalkar called for an immediate investigation into road works approved by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) standing committee. In a letter to municipal commissioner Vipin Itankar, Mahakalkar highlighted two road projects cleared during a March 24 meeting where contractors submitted rates nearly 40% below the estimated costs. One proposal under the Lakadganj zone was approved at 40.80% below the estimated cost, while another cement road project in the Dharampeth zone was cleared at 39.75% lower than the base price. Mahakalkar described the approvals as "highly questionable," warning that such drastic cost reductions raise serious concerns about the quality and durability of the work. He urged the NMC to form a committee to scrutinize all tenders approved at more than 30% below the estimated cost across departments. The leader also cautioned that approving abnormally low bids without rigorous oversight could result in substandard infrastructure and financial losses for the civic body. The issue has gained prominence due to reports highlighting the deterioration of recently constructed cement roads in the city. These roads have shown signs of wear within a short period, sparking concerns about inadequate quality control and weak tender scrutiny within the municipal administration. Mahakalkar’s letter underscores the growing public and political pressure to address potential corruption and mismanagement in civic projects. The NMC’s standing committee, which approved the controversial bids, faces scrutiny over its decision-making process.#nagpur_municipal_corporation #vipin_itankar #sanjay_mahakalkar #dharampeth_zone #lakadganj_zone
