Despite a controversy of conflict of interest on the Mohmand Dam project, the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) is on its way to award it to CGGC-Descon joint venture (JV) after clearing all the codal formalities, said sources. They said there was no change in the process and inauguration of the dam is scheduled on 13th of January. Meanwhile, the power sector circles are yet of the view that WAPDA should recall international bidding in the absence of a non-responsive competitor and in case no such exercise takes place, it would lead to an impression that the bidders are adamant to open only one bid.

They said awarding of such a mega project to a sole JV is against all the international tender procedures as well as the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules.

According to them, any such situation is tantamount to tailor-made terms and conditions, as all the documents are meant to qualify the desired and selected contender.

They said foreign investors would think twice before coming to Pakistan after awarding of this contract to only one contender.

Further, they have added that a limited response from the international bidders also suggest that the international companies are not taking situation in Pakistan conducive to operate.

They said it is also contrary to the ruling party's claims of transparency as it is not easy for the government to defend a project being awarded to a single bidder for such a big project.

According to these circles, the Pakistani firm in the JV has never executed a single project of Rs 90 billion (its share in the Rs 309 billion project) in its history of 40 years within and outside Pakistan.

Furthermore, they have pointed out that Advisor to Prime Minister Abdul Razzak Dawood has resigned from the post of Chairman which has limited powers. Also, they said Dawood still holds major shares of DESCON with remaining shares between his two sons and one daughter.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2019