A Rs 2,241-crore contract proposal for a major tunnel project in Mumbai has hit a roadblock after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) civic committee deferred its approval, seeking further information on the tendering process, project expenses and technical details before proceeding with the decision.
The proposal was tabled before the civic committee as part of the BMC’s broader efforts to enhance the city’s transport infrastructure through underground road networks. However, during discussions, committee members raised concerns over various financial and technical aspects of the project, prompting them to postpone the approval until additional clarifications are provided by the civic administration.
Officials said committee members sought more details about the tender evaluation mechanism, estimated project cost and the rationale behind selecting the contractor. They also asked the BMC to submit supporting documents and explanations related to the project before granting the final clearance.
The proposed tunnel is aimed at improving vehicular movement by creating an alternative underground route and easing pressure on Mumbai’s congested surface roads. The project is part of the city’s long-term mobility roadmap, which focuses on developing modern transport infrastructure, including tunnels, flyovers and grade-separated corridors to address increasing traffic demands.
BMC officials said the project remains a priority and the proposal is expected to be reconsidered after the required information is submitted. They added that the additional scrutiny reflects the committee’s role in ensuring transparency and proper evaluation of major infrastructure contracts involving public funds.
Once approved, the contract will allow the project to move towards the construction phase. While the deferment has temporarily slowed the approval process, officials indicated that the tunnel continues to remain an important component of Mumbai’s future road infrastructure plans aimed at improving connectivity and reducing congestion across the city.
Source: Prop News Time
