The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has suspended two officials, a park overseer and an executive engineer, for separate irregularities in the Perungudi zone. The executive engineer was suspended for floating six limited tenders worth Rs 3 crore to hire earthmovers for 105 days. Each tender for hiring a D80 A12 dozer was valued at Rs 48 lakh, while the MRP of a new D80 A12 machine is Rs 31 lakh. The tender process gave bidders only one day to apply and submit bids.
Irregularities flagged by NGO
The irregular tenders were flagged by anti-corruption NGO Arappor Iyakkam, prompting GCC to take action. M Radhakrishnan of Arappor Iyakkam questioned, "They can float one tender for six machines. What is the need to float six tenders? Why were all limited to just one day? Was the contractor finalised before the tender itself?"
Commissioner's response
GCC Commissioner J Kumaragurubaran termed it a serious violation and said suspensions were initiated as soon as the news reached officials. "Neither should they have floated six tenders nor should they have restricted the bidding time. A tender should ideally be open for at least seven days. The officials concerned will be asked to appear for an enquiry," the commissioner said.
Park overseer suspended
A complaint against the park overseer alleged that money was collected to tamper with the muster roll of park workers. "The project management consultants made a complaint stating Rs 1,500 was collected for marking workers present. We took action immediately," Kumaragurubaran said. He added, "I have instructed officials to stay away from all forms of irregularities. If any are found, suspension will be initiated immediately."
