Identification of challenges and shortcomings in the selection of bidders on road projects in India: a study

Abstract

The selection of bidders for road projects in India poses significant challenges and shortcomings, impacting project efficiency and outcomes. Enhancing project efficacy and efficiency requires recognizing and resolving these problems. The paper aims to explore the issues of contractor selection and the significance of project specific pre-qualification criteria. A mixed research approach was used in this study, consisting of a literature review and a questionnaire survey with a purposive sampling method. Key findings show that the lowest bidder, determined by the quoted price, is used as the basis for contractor selection. In contrast, political meddling, difficulties with selecting the best bidder among numerous alternatives, and complex manual selection processes were prominent. Payment, quality adherence requirements and progress tracking were the significant areas where conflict occurred with contractors. The study proposes a ranking structure for a total of 46 macro-level pre-qualification criteria. A weighted final decision system that uses a simple additive linear quantitative model is also suggested; this provides a general solution irrespective of the varying demographic and socio-economic legal framework of construction contracts. The study’s findings mandate that client organizations amend the current pre-qualification criteria and implement an appropriate decision support system for choosing the most reliable contractor.