Govt. softens 1000 double-cab tender specifications amid lingering favoritism concerns

According to the notice published on 29 September, interested bidders have been given until 22 October 2026 to submit their proposals.

Alongside the fleet of double-cabs, the ministry has concurrently issued separate tenders to acquire 175 tractors, 160 tippers, 100 backhoe loaders, and 100 gully emptiers for state operations.

This updated tender reflects a significant easing of technical and eligibility criteria, designed to broaden market participation and prevent a repeat of the controversies that stalled the previous attempt.

In October 2025, an earlier tender seeking 1,775 double-cabs was abruptly abandoned following widespread allegations that its strict criteria were tailored to favour a single local supplier, particularly given a restrictive submission window of just seven working days.

To address these concerns, the ministry has lowered the minimum engine capacity requirement from 2,500 cc to 2,400 cc, reduced required engine power by 7 per cent, and cut minimum torque standards by 12.5 per cent.

Ground clearance requirements have also been lowered from over 300 mm to more than 220 mm, allowing a wider variety of vehicle models to qualify.

In addition to physical vehicle specifications, commercial and operational eligibility parameters have been adjusted to create a more competitive bidding environment.

Suppliers are now required to demonstrate local sales experience of 500 units of the proposed make, down from the previous threshold of 1,000 units, while the mandatory average annual turnover has been reduced from Rs 10 billion to Rs 8 billion.

Bidders must maintain 10 service centres across the island, though only five must be directly owned, with franchised dealerships now permitted to fulfil the remaining quota.

However, financial backing conditions have been strengthened, with required bid security rising fivefold to Rs 250 million, alongside a requirement for bidders to prove access to Rs 5 billion in liquid assets or credit facilities.