Cities

Congress leader flags ‘manipulation’ in BMC’s SWM contracts, seeks probe

Anthony Hernandez जुलाई 15, 2026

p-Congress-leader-flags-manipulation-in-BMC-s-S_1784054630941

Table of Contents

Congress Leader Flags ‘Manipulation’ in BMC’s SWM Contracts, Seeks Probe

Mumbai’s Civic Body Faces Allegations of Contract Bias

Congress leader flags manipulation in BMC s – A Congress corporator has raised concerns about potential irregularities in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) solid waste management (SWM) tender process, accusing officials of altering decisions to favor a specific bidder. The inquiry centers on conflicting evaluations of bids and a possible breach of tender guidelines.

Contradictory Evaluations Spark Dispute

In a formal communication to Standing Committee chairman Prabhakar Shinde, Azmi highlighted that the SWM department had first endorsed the second-lowest bidder, PWG (JV), due to a rule limiting a single contractor to two works. However, the committee allegedly shifted its stance to support the lowest eligible bidder, Metro Waste Handling Pvt Ltd, despite initial objections.

Reversal of Recommendation Under Scrutiny

Azmi pointed out that the deputy chief engineer (SWM Planning) submitted the proposal in favor of PWG (JV) on June 3, only for it to be withdrawn after committee members raised concerns. They argued that endorsing the lowest bidder would violate Central Vigance Commission guidelines, citing a 2014 government resolution mandating fresh tenders if the lowest bid exceeds 10% of the estimated cost.

Allegations of Favoritism and Rule-Breaking

The Congress leader claimed the deputy chief engineer reversed his recommendation without explanation, aligning with the lowest eligible bidder. He emphasized that Metro Waste Handling’s original bid surpassed the prescribed threshold, which would allow the same contractor to secure more than two works, contradicting the earlier justification for PWG (JV).

Call for Transparency and Legal Action

Azmi has demanded a departmental inquiry into officials’ conduct, alongside disciplinary and legal measures if tender rules are found to be violated. The issue, he stressed, carries significant financial implications for the BMC, urging the standing committee to ensure the procurement process remains transparent, fair, and legally compliant.