VIJAYAWADA: To encourage joint venture (JV) participation in the International Competitive Bidding (ICB) for Phase 1 of the Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada metro rail projects, the AP Metro Rail Corporation (APMRCL) has officially stated that a maximum of three bidders can form a JV to take part in the bidding process. This initiative aims to enhance competition among bidders for both metro rail projects. However, the APMRCL has declined the bidders’ suggestion to divide the metro project works into multiple packages, which was proposed during the pre-bid meeting.
In an interview with TOI, APMRCL MD NP Rama Krishna Reddy remarked, “A maximum of three contractors can submit a single bid, and even two contractors can jointly place a bid. This approach is intended to attract more bidders, similar to other metro projects, and expedite the completion of the metro initiatives. The goal is to operationalize the metros within the targeted timeframe to mitigate the prolonged delays seen in other metro projects across the country.”
Rama Krishna Reddy further clarified, “The APMRCL opposes splitting the metro project works into smaller packages, as this would likely result in significant delays and increased project costs, as evidenced by other metro projects nationwide.”
The APMRCL has announced Phase 1 tenders for both the Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada metro rail projects, covering 46.23 km and 38 km respectively, focused on civil works at 40% of total project costs. The tenders aim to complete both metro projects within 35 to 40 months and have them operational by 2028, stressing the need for capable firms with a strong track record in large project completion. The deadline for submitting tender bids for the Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada metro projects is set for October 10 and October 14, respectively, with no extensions anticipated.
