Maharashtra government has sent an official team to Gujarat to ascertain the expenditure incurred on the purchase and maintenance of solar pump project. Till the team gives its report, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has put a stay on the purchase of 10,000 solar pumps in Maharashtra from Jain Irrigation which was shortlisted for the pilot project.The decision comes in the wake of serious allegations made by opposition leader Dhananjay Munde of overpricing of

The decision comes in the wake of serious allegations made by opposition leader Dhananjay Munde of overpricing of solar pump by Rs 1 lakh by the company.

The energy minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said, “The final agreement between Maharashtra government and Jain Irrigation for the of solar pumps have been put on hold by the chief minister.”

While maintaining, the state government had diligently pursued the procedure which resulted in 68 tenders,out of which Jain Irrigation was qualified for the project.

However, Fadnavis believes the charge of cost escalation needs to be thoroughly ascertained before moving ahead in the project. The directive given to the officials is to go through Gujarat model.

Insiders indicated that if the overprice as alleged by opposition is established, the government will not hesitate in canceling the order. It will go for fresh tender.

Munde claimed, “ Gujarat government which is pursuing the solar project got five HP solar pumps for Rs 3.5 lakh. Whereas, the power minister has agreed to pay Rs 5.4 lakh per pump. It means Rs 1.4 lakh more per pump.”