Ambulance Scam: Maharashtra Government Awards ₹1,600 Crore Contract Amid Allegations
Ambulance Tender Controversy
No Ambulances, Still Paid
Contractors Pocket Crores Without Deliveries
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
Contact: +91 9322755098
The Maharashtra government’s ₹12,000 crore ambulance tender to Sumit Facilities, SSG, and BVG has sparked major controversy. Sprouts News Special Investigation Team reveals allegations of favoritism, inflated costs, and lack of transparency. Despite no ambulance deliveries after a year, contractors are receiving monthly payments, raising serious concerns over public healthcare accountability.
State Awards 10-Year Ambulance Contract to Consortium
The Maharashtra Public Health Department has finalized a 10-year agreement with SUMEET SSG BVG Maharashtra EMS Pvt Ltd to operate the state’s 108 Emergency Ambulance Service. This initiative, valued at approximately ₹1,600 crore, aims to deploy 1,756 ambulances equipped with advanced medical technology across the state.
The new fleet will include Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, neonatal care units, first responder bikes, and sea and river ambulances. Future plans also encompass the integration of medical drones and helicopter-based emergency services.
Ambulance Scam: Allegations of Irregularities in Tender Process
Despite the project’s scale and potential impact, the tender process has faced significant scrutiny. Critics, including political leaders and activists, allege that the tender was tailored to favor the consortium, comprising Sumeet Facilities Ltd, BVG India Ltd, and Spain-based SSG Transporte Sanitario. Concerns have been raised about inflated costs, lack of transparency, and potential conflicts of interest.
Notably, the annual expenditure for the project is set at ₹759.56 crore, leading to a total of approximately ₹10,000 crore over the contract’s duration. This figure represents a significant increase compared to previous contracts, prompting questions about the justification for such escalation.
Ambulance Scam: Legal Challenges and Court Rulings
In response to the allegations, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed, challenging the legitimacy of the tender process. However, the Bombay High Court dismissed the PIL, stating that the tender process was conducted in the public interest and did not warrant judicial intervention.
The court acknowledged the concerns but emphasized the necessity of progressing with the project to enhance emergency medical services across Maharashtra.
Also Read: Siddhivinayak’s ₹22 Cr Service Mission: Faith Meets Social Impact.
Related Article: ₹6,000 Cr Ambulance Deal Sparks Health Scandal in Maharashtra.
Sprouts News Special Investigation Team’s Findings
The Sprouts News Special Investigation Team has been closely monitoring the developments surrounding the ambulance tender. Our investigations reveal that the tender document was allegedly drafted at the office of one of the consortium members, raising serious questions about the integrity of the process.
Furthermore, it has come to light that despite the contract being awarded nearly a year ago, the consortium has yet to deliver any ambulances. Nonetheless, they have reportedly received monthly payments amounting to ₹33.5 crore, totaling over ₹400 crore to date.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Activists and political leaders continue to demand greater transparency and accountability in the execution of the ambulance project. They urge the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the tender process and ensure that public funds are utilized effectively to enhance healthcare services.
The Sprouts News Special Investigation Team remains committed to uncovering the truth and will persist in its efforts to bring clarity to this significant public health matter.
