"MSRDC Reissues Tender for Samruddhi Mahamarg Solar Power Project Due to Poor Response"

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has taken steps to reissue two separate tenders for a solar power project along the Samruddhi Mahamarg after receiving an inadequate response to the initial call.

According to an MSRDC official, the decision to reissue the tenders became necessary as the previous attempt failed to attract sufficient interest. Restrictions imposed during the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Legislative Council elections in four constituencies also delayed the recall of the tender.

"Now that the election restrictions have been lifted, we have reissued the tenders," stated the official.

The MSRDC, through its special purpose vehicle Mahasamruddhi Renewable Energy Limited (MREL), aims to promote green energy by establishing solar power plants at interchanges along the Samruddhi Mahamarg. This initiative aligns with India's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

The reissued tenders seek firms to conduct feasibility studies, prepare detailed project reports (DPRs), manage the bidding process, trade carbon credits, and provide project management consultancy services for wind, solar, and hybrid projects along the Samruddhi Mahamarg in Maharashtra.

Furthermore, the MSRDC is looking to hire a consultant to conduct a peer review of existing DPRs, taking into account technological advancements and changes in commercial and policy landscapes at the national and state levels. This consultant will also oversee the bidding process for appointing contractors for the solar power projects based on revised DPRs, as well as manage carbon credit trading and project management consultancy.

In 2021, the MSRDC conducted DPRs for a solar power project at interchanges along the Samruddhi Mahamarg. The proposed project aims to generate between 150 to 200 megawatts of solar power, providing illumination for the highway and contributing to substantial savings in monthly power bills currently incurred at interchanges and tunnels on the upcoming Missing Link Expressway.

Additionally, the MSRDC plans to utilize the solar power generated to meet its own energy needs at various offices in Mumbai, including locations at Nepean Sea Road and Bandra Reclamation, as well as in Pune, Nashik, and Aurangabad.

This green energy initiative is expected to significantly reduce the carbon footprint and transform the Samruddhi Mahamarg into an environmentally sustainable corridor for the future.

THE INDIAN EXPRESS