The increasing dependence of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation on external project management consultants (PMCs) for infrastructure development has drawn criticism from political representatives, leading to delays in the approval of several civic project proposals.
During a recent standing committee meeting, corporators from multiple political parties questioned the civic body’s growing practice of outsourcing responsibilities that were traditionally managed by in-house municipal engineers. The issue sparked strong objections, with members expressing concern over the expanding role of consultants in major public infrastructure works.
As a result of the opposition, several proposals related to the appointment of consultants for important water supply and infrastructure projects were temporarily put on hold.
Among the projects under discussion were consultancy appointments for four large-scale water infrastructure developments. These included the proposed 2000 MLD pumping station linked to the Manori desalination project at Bhandup, as well as the design of a new 3000 mm diameter pipeline connecting the Gundavali reservoirs.
According to civic records presented before the committee, the municipal corporation intended to award consultancy contracts for all four projects to the same consultant. This proposal further intensified concerns among committee members regarding transparency, accountability and the reduced involvement of the BMC’s engineering department in large-scale civic works.
Corporators reportedly questioned whether the civic administration was gradually sidelining its own technical workforce despite having experienced municipal engineers capable of handling such assignments internally. The discussion also reflected broader concerns around rising consultancy costs and the long-term dependence on private firms for planning and execution support.
The matter is expected to be reviewed further before any final decision is taken on the appointment of consultants for the proposed infrastructure projects.
Source: The Indian Express
