Some contractors say awarding tender to the lowest bidder is compromising the quality of infrastructure in the country.
The lowest quoted bid is the amount quoted by the bidder whereas lowest evaluated bid is a bid which is technically qualified and financially low.
“It is not a good idea to award tender to the lowest bidder because they cannot complete the work on time. And they may compromise the quality of work,” said a contractor, Zeko.
Instead, he said, works should be given to those who quote price in line with the procurement agencies’ estimated cost.
“This way, they may be able to come up with good quality work”.
Another contractor, Ugyen Penjor said the government could be losing more by awarding work to contractors who are not capable of coming up with sturdy infrastructure.
“I am worried if the infrastructure built these days will really be there after 20 years,” he said.
Procurement Rules and Regulations say the contract should be awarded to the lowest evaluated bidder.
BBS got in touch with the finance ministry but the Public Procurement Policy Division’s Chief said it is up to them whether to comment or not.
