Tue Feb 25 18:16:31 UTC 2025: **Bombay High Court Orders Review of MMRDA’s Contract Termination; Corruption Inquiry Launched**

MUMBAI, February 25, 2025 – The Bombay High Court on Tuesday ruled that the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority’s (MMRDA) termination of a contract with French consultancy firm Systra MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd. was “arbitrary” and “unfair.” The MMRDA had ended the contract, which involved design consultancy for three Mumbai metro lines (5, 7A, and 9), after Systra accused MMRDA officials of corruption.

Following the High Court’s decision, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ordered a departmental inquiry into the corruption allegations. Principal Secretary, Urban Development, Aseem Gupta will lead the investigation and is expected to submit a report within two weeks.

The High Court’s order directs the MMRDA to reconsider its decision, holding a hearing with Systra before issuing a new, reasoned order. Opposition parties, including the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Congress, have called for a more thorough probe, with the Congress demanding a judicial investigation. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray directly urged Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to intervene.

Read More