GBA chief M Maheshwar Rao defends sweeping machine plan; promises transparency in tendering

Bengaluru: GBA Chief Commissioner M Maheshwar Rao on Thursday defended the government’s decision to hire 46 mechanical sweeping machines at an estimated cost of Rs 613 crore, saying the move followed “a full year of deliberation” and detailed technical evaluation.

Addressing reporters, Rao said the GBA had studied both truck-mounted and self-propelled models, reviewed the performance of existing machines, and carried out “detailed verification” of maintenance requirements.

“Buying machines may appear cheaper upfront, but maintenance costs and the need for in-house technical staff make it more expensive in the long run. Hiring ensures the supplier becomes a stakeholder in performance,” he said.

Rao added that the GBA had analysed indicative prices of machines available on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), including those from Dulveo, Bucher and local manufacturers. “Eighteen per cent GST is included in the project cost. If GST is waived, the overall expenditure will drop by nearly Rs 100 crore,” he said.

He noted that the cabinet had approved the project based on a broad hiring framework, after which the GBA would now float tenders. “If high-quality machines are offered at lower rates, we will procure them. All companies are free to participate,” Rao said, adding that the project also requires hook loaders and separate vehicles to transport collected dust.

The machines will primarily be deployed on arterial and main roads where manual sweeping is difficult, he said.

Amid criticism over the project cost, the GBA has decided to publish detailed calculation sheets and cost breakdowns of the sweeping machines on its website.