Committee Formed to Review Controversial Bidding of Islamabad’s Sector

The Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) has constituted a four-member committee to investigate irregularities in the bidding process of a development project in sub-sector G-14/1, valued at over Rs3.5 billion. The tender for infrastructure works was floated in December 2024, where the lowest bid of Rs3.92 billion exceeded the estimated project cost of Rs3.13 billion by nearly 25 percent. In July 2025, the authority annulled the process without issuing a work order. The contractor challenged this decision in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), which directed FGEHA’s executive board to provide a fair hearing and issue a speaking order within 30 days. The matter was discussed in the 42nd Executive Board meeting on September 11, where the contractor was heard in line with the court’s directions. A three-member body initially suggested a way forward, after which the authority decided to establish a four-member committee for a detailed review. According to the official notification dated September 17, the committee is tasked with examining the case on merit and finalizing recommendations within 15 days. The members include: Shortly after the board hearing, the construction firm submitted a written offer of a 10.6 percent rebate on its original bid to bring down the quoted cost, stating that work could begin immediately if the bid was restored. The firm emphasized that the rebate was being extended to align with the board’s objections and ensure smooth execution of the project. The tender initially drew applications from four companies, but only one qualified. Although the disqualified bidders did not challenge the evaluation criteria, both the internal audit wing and the Chief Engineer of FGEHA flagged concerns, which ultimately led to the cancellation of the process in July. Residents and allottees of Sector G-14/1 have been waiting for essential facilities for years, and delays caused by the stalled development project have further added to their frustration. The committee’s findings are expected to determine whether the bid will be restored or a fresh tender will be issued.     Via Dawn