Maharashtra CM Affirms Transparency Amid MMRDA-Systra Dispute

Synopsis

Maharashtra's Chief Minister ensures transparency in the dispute between MMRDA and Systra, with hearings set up for both parties to present their cases. Key officials emphasize cooperation and communication as essential in resolving the conflict.

Key Takeaways

Devendra Fadnavis emphasizes transparency in disputes.
Hearings will be conducted to address concerns from both sides.
MMRDA and Systra are currently in conflict regarding contract issues.
Foreign companies must uphold diligence, as expected from the government.
Media should report on all aspects, including Systra's denial of financial transactions.

Mumbai, March 2 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Sunday that the Additional Chief Secretary of the Urban Development Department, Aseem Gupta, has been instructed to facilitate a hearing regarding the conflict between the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the French firm Systra, ensuring both parties have the opportunity to present their cases.

Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting and the customary tea gathering ahead of the budget session, he emphasized that transparency will remain a key priority in this issue.

“The government is committed to treating foreign companies well. While we are ready to address any lapses on our part, we expect foreign companies to reciprocate with similar diligence,” stated the Chief Minister.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Development Minister Eknath Shinde, who also chairs the MMRDA, remarked that Systra, in a letter dated February 27, refuted claims of any financial dealings as reported by the media.

“The media should also publish this letter,” he added. Shinde noted that the French company ought to have reached out to the state government or him directly rather than addressing its concerns to the French Embassy in New Delhi.

The conflict originated from a contract awarded to the Systra-SMCIPL Consortium, where Systra holds a 70 percent stake, to provide general and design consultancy services for Mumbai metro lines 5 (Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan), 7A [Andheri (East)-CSIA], and 9 (Mira Bhayander).

Systra, in an unsigned letter, alleged serious instances of harassment and undue requests for monetary favors by MMRDA officials, claiming they were coerced into making unjust financial contributions.

In response, MMRDA contended that Systra's allegations were a diversion from its own contractual failures, labeling the company as underperforming.

Furthermore, MMRDA clarified that Systra only misrepresented facts to the French government following suspension and termination notices, indicating that such claims were an afterthought aimed at shifting focus from Systra’s own contractual breaches.