The Times of India  24.08.2010

MUMBAI: The BMC has decided to change its tendering system for road and pothole repairs. Currently, the lowest bidder is favoured in the tendering process irrespective of quality. But this is set to change. "We have to decided to frame a new policy that will consider the second lowest or even the third lowest if quality standards are being met with," said a senior civic official.

This year, quotations for tenders to repair potholes have touched 55% below the specified rates- the lowest ever reported. This, despite the BMC taking additional security deposit for rates quoted 12% below the standard mark. For every 1% below the 12% mark, an additional deposit is made. On Monday, after a meeting held with Standing Technical Advisory Committee (STAC) members, the BMC chalked out an action plan to tackle the pothole menace.

The BMC will prepare a system of 'preventive maintenance'. A check will be conducted on the design of the road and material used. STAC panel members will soon recommend the best ways to carry out 'ducting' on roads. "They will submit a report on how big the duct should be and the work to be carried out," said civic chief Swadheen Kshatriya. Suggestions will be made on the use of paver blocks. Committee members have suggested that engineers from the road department should not be transferred as they have a better understanding of techniques.