MSRTC Floats Tender For 3,000 Buses Amid ₹1,700 Crore Tender Scam Probe

Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to enhance its fleet with the acquisition of 3,000 ready-built 11-meter buses. To facilitate this, the transport body recently issued an e-tender, with the bid submission deadline set for May 14. The tenders will be opened the following day.

The new buses will be diesel-powered and come with a Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract (CAMC) for the engine and related systems. As part of the contract, successful bidders must maintain these components for seven years, while MSRTC mechanics will handle the upkeep of other parts, reported the Indian Express. Currently, MSRTC operates around 14,500 buses across its extensive network of 251 depots and 31 divisions, serving passengers across Maharashtra.

Probe Into Irregularities In MSRTC Tender Process

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced an inquiry into alleged irregularities in a previous MSRTC tender process concerning bus leasing. The controversy involves work orders for 1,310 buses, allegedly issued through collusion with contractors, causing a reported loss of approximately Rs 1,700 crore to the state exchequer.

Speaking in the legislative council on Wednesday, Fadnavis responded to a starred question from Congress MLA Rajesh Rathod, stating that the irregularities took place during the transition period after the November 2024 elections. He clarified that the work orders were issued before the formation of a full cabinet, without approval from the chief minister or deputy chief minister.

Recognising the financial impact of these alleged irregularities, the government swiftly intervened by halting the tender process and ordering an inquiry. The investigation is being conducted under the supervision of the additional secretary of the Transport Department. Fadnavis assured that action would be taken within a month against those responsible for the mismanagement.