Several infrastructure projects undertaken by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) have recorded combined cost escalations of Rs 148.18 crore, prompting opposition parties to question civic planning, financial transparency and accountability. A significant share of the additional expenditure relates to flyover reconstruction works, while major increases have also been reported for Ashray Yojana and the Mrinaltai Gore flyover.
The issue has come under scrutiny as the BMC Standing Committee has recently considered multiple proposals seeking approval for higher project costs. The increases include approximately Rs 53 crore for Ashray Yojana and Rs 38 crore for the Mrinaltai Gore flyover.
The developments follow the end of nearly four years of administrative rule in February 2026, after civic elections were held. With the elected civic body back in place, project proposals are once again being presented to the Standing Committee for approval.
Opposition representatives have raised concerns about the reasons behind repeated cost revisions and their impact on public funds. Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Shraddha Jadhav said, “Instead of merely approving proposals, the reasons behind project delays should be investigated. We have repeatedly demanded that these proposals be referred back for scrutiny, but the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance has cleared them by majority.”
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena group leader Yashwant Killedar alleged that some contractors submit bids 30–40% below estimated project costs to secure contracts before seeking substantial increases later. “Such steep hikes warrant scrutiny, including a probe into a possible nexus between contractors and civic officials. Yet, despite our objections, the ruling parties continue to clear these proposals,” he said.
Standing Committee chairman Prabhakar Shinde defended the approvals, stating that the projects had begun during the administrator’s tenure and that revised estimates were necessary for their completion. He also cited steps to control administrative expenditure undertaken without tenders.
A senior civic official said certain increases resulted from encroachments and other implementation challenges. “Additional costs are approved only after their necessity is verified,” the official said.
Source: The Free Press Journal
