Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Transforms Roundabouts into Revenue Streams
The Municipal Corporation (MC) of Chandigarh has embarked on a strategic initiative to convert the city's roundabouts into profitable assets by outsourcing their maintenance and advertising rights to private companies. This move aims to enhance civic infrastructure while generating significant annual revenue for the municipal body.
Tender Process and Current Status
The civic body has successfully completed the tender process for a total of 36 roundabouts across the city. In the initial phase, bids were received and approved for 20 roundabouts following a thorough technical and financial evaluation. As of now, five of these roundabouts have already been handed over to the selected private firms, with the transfer process for the remaining 15 currently underway.
A second round of tendering has been conducted for the other 16 roundabouts, and bids have been submitted. These proposals are presently under technical scrutiny by MC officials to ensure compliance with established norms and standards.
Project Timeline and Contract Details
MC officials have indicated that the entire allotment process is expected to be finalized by late February or early March. Each roundabout will be allotted to private firms for a period of two years, with an option to extend the contract by an additional year based on performance and mutual agreement.
To maintain quality and adherence to maintenance standards, the horticulture wing staff of the Municipal Corporation will conduct routine inspections of the roundabouts. This oversight mechanism is designed to ensure that the private firms uphold the required upkeep and aesthetic standards.
Revenue Generation and Economic Impact
The Municipal Corporation anticipates generating an annual revenue of approximately Rs 3 to 4 crore through this outsourcing model. This revenue is expected to be reinvested into civic amenities and infrastructure development, thereby benefiting the residents of Chandigarh.
By leveraging private sector efficiency and investment, the MC aims to not only reduce its maintenance burden but also create a sustainable revenue model that can support future urban development projects. This initiative reflects a broader trend of municipal bodies exploring innovative ways to fund public infrastructure without relying solely on taxpayer money.
