The Times of India              28.06.2013

Vasai-Virar municipality to launch e-tenders

MUMBAI: The Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) is all set to introduce the process of online tenders.

The Electronic Tendering System (ETS) of the Maharashtra government will be adopted by the municipality for tenders where the cost of work exceeds Rs 10 lakhs. Sify Technologies Limited will provide the logistics for e-tendering. A programme to acquaint both the staff and civic contractors about online tendering is being held today at the Bhausaheb Vartak hall in Virar (west).

The standing committee of the VVMC had taken a decision to introduce e-tenders at a meeting held on April 20. The government has been insisting on e-tenders by all departments, agencies and corporations of the state. Civic officials said that the process of accepting tenders online should begin next week.

Contractors have to register for the ETS before applying online. As of now tenders are submitted in sealed envelopes to the VVMC. The sealed envelopes are opened on a pre-decided date and the lowest bidder bags the contract.

Civic employees, especially those who are not computer savvy are a little nervous about online tenders. The staff will be trained to process the tenders and address any online glitches.

The Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has been successfully using e-tenders.