National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has sought the Election
Commission's (EC) approval for carrying out the bidding process of 50 highway
projects during the model code of conduct period.
The model code of conduct started from 2 March 2009, which prohibits
ministers and other authorities from announcing any financial grants or new
schemes. This will halt the project allocation process at a time of slowdown
when need of the hour is to hasten execution, especially of infrastructure
projects.
NHAI had invited bids for 60 projects after the global meltdown in October
2008. It attracted only 19 bidders. As a result, only seven projects were
awarded and four had to be cancelled. NHAI now wants to expedite the
implementation process of the balance highway projects.