With schools reopening in 10 days, BMC uniforms, textbooks, and essential supplies have yet to arrive. Officials said procurement through the GeM portal is underway, with phased distribution expected by next month. A ₹22 crore tender covers a two-year period, with six rounds of quality testing and penalties for defective supplies.

Mumbai: With just 10 days remaining before schools reopen, uniforms, textbooks and other essential supplies meant for students of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)-run schools are yet to arrive, with officials unable to provide a definite delivery timeline. The procurement has been carried out through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.

Procurement Delayed

Traditionally, school uniforms and educational supplies are delivered at least 45 days before the commencement of the academic year. However, this year the process has been delayed, a concern that was raised during the civic body's Standing Committee meeting on Friday.

The BMC has floated a tender worth ₹22 crore for the procurement of school uniforms, sandals, pens, pencils, compass boxes, poster colours, brushes and other items required by students. The contract is intended to cover a two-year period.