(a) whether Haldia Dock Complex acquired trimmers for use by coal shiploaders in July, 1991 but the trimmers were finally fitted in November/December 1998 to the shiploaders and an amount of Rs. 91.72 lakhs was paid for seven years as pointed out by the CAG in their Report 4 of 1999 on page 95;
(b) if so, reasons therefor; and
(c) the action taken against the authorities responsible therefor ?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SHIPPING (SHRI SHRIPAD Y. NAIK)
(a) to (c): Haldia Dock Complex had placed an order, after due process of tenders, for delivery of two modified Trimmers for use by coal shiploaders at Berth No. 4 at a cost of Rs. 91.72 lakhs and payment was made in July, 1991 and September, 1992. During trials in February, 1993 the Trimmers were found to have certain design defects and were sent to the firm for rectifying defects which was completed by the firm in November, 1996 at their own cost. The security deposit of the firm has been withheld for delay in rectifying the defects as per relevant terms of the contract for guarantee against satisfactory performance.