Mumbai: BMC’s ₹5.53-Crore EUS Machine Tender Faces Cancellation; Congress Leader Ashraf Azmi Seeks Review

Mumbai, September 30, 2026: The Congress leader in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Ashraf Azmi, has raised concerns over the potential cancellation of the tender for two Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) machines. These machines are intended for KEM Hospital and LTMG Hospital, key civic hospitals in the city. The procurement proposal, tied to Resolution No. 545 dated June 16, 2023, includes the purchase of one EUS machine for each hospital, along with installation, commissioning, a three-year warranty, and a five-year maintenance contract.

The bid was made by a single company, Pentax Medical India Pvt. Ltd., with the total estimated cost amounting to approximately Rs 5.53 crore.

Azmi has questioned why patients, who need this essential diagnostic tool for gastrointestinal diseases, pancreatic conditions, and certain cancers, are currently being referred to private facilities. The cost of the procedure in private clinics can range between Rs 35,000 and Rs 40,000, adding an undue financial strain on economically weaker families.

Furthermore, Azmi has questioned the application of single response criteria across all BMC procurement processes, citing other equipment purchases like anaesthesia equipment and MRI machines, which have reportedly been finalized despite a single bid submission.

In a representation to the Municipal Commissioner, Azmi has requested a clarification on the tender conditions, technical requirements, and the rationale behind the proposed cancellation. He fears that the cancellation and subsequent re-tendering of the contract could result in further delays and increased costs due to inflation and foreign-exchange fluctuations.

Azmi has urged the Municipal Commissioner and the Standing Committee to reconsider the proposal, provide reasons for the delay, and evaluate the financial and technical implications of cancelling the contract. He has pledged that Congress will oppose the proposed cancellation in the Standing Committee, demanding a time-bound resolution to ensure patients at KEM and LTMG Hospitals can access EUS services without resorting to costly private options.