Corp cites bidder queries and high investment requirements as reasons for 10-day extension
MAPUSA
The Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC) has extended the deadline for submission of bids under its Request for Qualification (RFQ) to set up the long-awaited solid waste management project at Bainguinim to November 10.
The earlier deadline for submission of bids had ended on October 31, but the corporation has now granted an additional 10 days to allow prospective bidders more time to submit their proposals.
GWMC Managing Director Harish Adconkar said the decision to extend the deadline was taken following requests from interested firms seeking clarifications on various aspects of the project.
“We are getting a good response for the project. It’s a high-investment proposal and the private parties need clarity on certain aspects. There were some queries from the bidders and therefore the time has been extended,” Adconkar said.
He revealed that six bidders had participated in a pre-bid meeting held about two months ago, indicating encouraging interest in the project.
The corporation, however, has not made any changes to the tender terms or qualification criteria after the first deadline was set.
The tender invites bidders for the design, engineering, financing, construction, supply, installation, commissioning, performance run and operation and maintenance of a 100-tonne-per-day (TPD) solid waste processing facility at Bainguinim for a 15-year concession period.
The proposed facility will incorporate recycling and sorting lines, segregation systems, bio-methanation, and composting units.
The updated RFQ also specifies detailed financial and technical eligibility criteria for prospective bidders.
Originally proposed in 2019, the Bainguinim project has witnessed repeated delays due to technical hurdles, administrative bottlenecks and local opposition.
However, Adconkar maintained that the earlier objections from residents have now been resolved.
“Earlier there were some issues, especially with the local residents, which have been settled. Right now, we don’t see any challenges for the facility,” he said, adding that the project has received all necessary approvals, including environmental clearance.
