Following criticism over design deficiencies and execution issues in several major infrastructure projects, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed appointing a panel of technical consultants to oversee the planning, design and execution of bridges, flyovers and tunnel projects across Mumbai.
The proposal, which will be placed before the civic standing committee this week, seeks to empanel 29 technical consultants for a period of five years. The initiative is aimed at strengthening project planning, reducing delays during execution and ensuring greater accountability for design-related shortcomings.
If approved, the empanelled consultants will assist the BMC’s Bridges Department by preparing project designs, providing technical supervision during construction and identifying engineering challenges before work begins.
According to the civic body, the move is intended to ensure that future infrastructure projects are planned scientifically and executed more efficiently, while minimising delays and technical errors.
The proposal comes after several high-profile projects attracted public criticism. Last month, the newly inaugurated Mrinaltai Gore Flyover in Goregaon came under scrutiny over its uneven road surface.
Earlier, the Vikhroli Railway Overbridge faced criticism for lacking a central divider and pedestrian infrastructure soon after it was opened to traffic. In February 2024, the reconstruction of the Gopal Krishna Gokhale Bridge in Andheri also came under the spotlight after its two bridge arms failed to align during construction.
According to documents prepared by the Chief Engineer (Bridges) Department, 31 firms had submitted bids for empanelment. After evaluating their technical qualifications and experience, the BMC shortlisted 29 firms, including Tata Consultancy Engineers, Spectrum Techno Consultants and Green Design and Engineering Services.
The selected consultants will be responsible for developing project designs, identifying potential engineering issues before construction begins and recommending corrective measures during implementation to avoid design failures and execution delays.
The proposal also recommends a maximum consultancy fee of Rs 3.5 crore for most projects. However, this cap will not apply to technically complex structures such as cable-stayed, extra-dosed, arch and suspension bridges, where consultancy charges will be determined separately.
To enhance accountability, the BMC has proposed financial penalties for consultants whose design errors result in significant project modifications or cost escalations. Under the proposed guidelines, design changes or additional costs arising from consultant oversight cannot exceed 15% of the project value. If this limit is breached, the consultant will face a penalty equivalent to 10% of the consultancy fee.
Source: The Indian Express
