Re-tender on hydroelectric project quashed

Kochi, Jan 1 (UNI) The Kerala High Court today set aside the notification of the State and Kerala State Electricity Board inviting fresh tenders for the Athirapally Hydro-Electric Project.

In his orders, Justice S Siri Jagan said there was lack of transparency in the action of the KSEB and State Government in opting for re-tender, in the face of all adverse circumstances, which would admittedly result in delay and loss to the KSEB and State.

He also directed the board to revise the contract price according to the formula suggested and implement its decision taken on December 30, 2005 by awarding the contract to the consortium for the price so fixed.

The court also gave direction for awarding the contract to HCC-BHEL consortium at least by February 25 this year to enable the consortium to commence work on the project before March 31.

The Hindustan Construction Company had approached the court challenging the notification inviting fresh tenders.

UNI XR GM GL RK1825