An empowered committee headed by the Kerala chief secretary has advised the state government against the single bid for the Vizhinjam port and container terminal project.

This effectively rules out further play of sole bidder Welspun Infratech consortium unless it agrees to withdraw its demand for a grant from the state government.

The committee has suggested that this may be communicated to the consortium and in case the latter was not agreeable, then fresh tender may be considered.

According to the Chief Minister, Mr Oommen Chandy, the state cabinet will examine the committee’s report and take a decision.  

The Welspun-led consortium had originally sought a grant of Rs 479.54 crore from the state government. This was later revised down to Rs 399.5 crore.

vinson.kurian@thehindu.co.in

comment COMMENT NOW