Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai(DD)

Mumbai, Jun 3: Amid rising diplomatic tensions following Turkey’s open support for Pakistan during the recent Operation Sindoor, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a firm stand by cancelling a high-value tender linked to Turkish imports for beach safety equipment.

The tender, initially floated in September last year, aimed to bolster Mumbai’s coastal safety with the procurement of six advanced robotic water rescue vehicles. These devices were expected to assist lifeguards at major beaches like Girgaum Chowpatty, Juhu, Dadar Shivaji Park, Versova, Aksa, and Gorai.

However, the winning bidder proposed importing the rescue technology from Maren Robotics, a Turkish firm. Following Ankara’s public alignment with Islamabad during recent hostilities — which included missile and drone attacks on Indian territory — BMC officials, in close consultation with central agencies, decided to cancel the procurement.

“This is beyond infrastructure. It’s a matter of national integrity,” said a senior BMC source. “We cannot proceed with deals involving countries whose governments choose to side against India during such critical times.”

Officials clarified that the decision was guided by both policy and sentiment. With Turkey’s statements during Operation Sindoor drawing strong criticism in Indian diplomatic circles, BMC’s move is being seen as a reflection of India’s broader foreign policy realignment.

While the decision may temporarily affect Mumbai’s efforts to upgrade beach rescue systems, the civic body has assured that alternative procurement options are being actively explored — particularly from allied nations with whom India shares strong bilateral ties.

The cancellation also signals a larger shift in the way Indian civic and government bodies are aligning their contracts and international partnerships with national security interests. As the aftershocks of Operation Sindoor continue to reverberate, the BMC’s action adds to India’s growing resolve to isolate unsupportive states through economic and administrative measures.