the goan I network
VASCO
It’s almost seven years since funds of Rs 3 crore were allotted to Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) to construct the Silver Jubilee Signature Project, but the project is yet to see the light of day.
As part of the Silver Jubilee Signature Project, the MMC had decided to utilise funds to demolish the chief officer’s bungalow and construct a five-storied commercial
complex.
After receiving funds of Rs 3 crore, MMC had floated e-tenders and despite receiving a bid from a contractor, the project failed to start. Later, a tender for the signature project was floated for about three times, but no one came forward to bid for the project.
When contacted, MMC chairperson Deepak Naik said the first bidder lost the contract following discrepancies in the bidding process.
“The tender was then floated three times, but no one came forward and when I took over as chairperson the tender was floated a fourth time. The tender was allotted to a bidder, but it could not take off due to the election code of conduct.”
“The file has been moved to the Directorate of Municipal Administration and is awaiting final approval, as the cost has escalated,” said Naik.
“The amount is in the bank and over a period, the principal amount has accrued interest to the tune of Rs 2 crore, which would take care of extra cost, and whatever amount falls short we will request the government to help us,”
added Naik.
When asked when the project would begin, Naik replied: “The file is pending before the Financial Advisory Committee and once the council gets the green signal, the work
will commence.”
