THIS has reference to the news item appearing in the Islamabad issue (Dec 12). It is unfortunate to note that the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has shown their inability to utilise the whole amount of Rs350 million within three months.

Instead they wish to place repeat order to the vendor who had supplied the equipment earlier. These lucky suppliers must be having blessings of the purchase committee.

The PIMS hospital has adopted a procedure of purchasing medical instruments and allied items in local currency on an FOR basis (free delivery at PIMS inclusive of all government taxes, vendor’s margin and order processing charges).

Purchase on a FOR basis encourages vendors to supply used/pre - owned equipment, reconditioned instruments, loads of which are imported as scrap, taxes underpaid and loss to the nation’s foreign exchange. This is one of the the main reasons behind the problems at PIMS.PIMS could instead advertise the tender in at least five newspapers having circulation nationwide. The specifications of equipment should be generalised without mentioning model number or brand name. The bids should be called on C and F Islamabad basis, two years warranty from the date of installation, payment via letter of credit, air freight prepaid, delivery at Islamabad airport, etc.

The prices should be in the currency of the manufacturer’s country, the country of origin of the equipment offered, while installation and application training to be rendered by the local agent of the manufacturer, having an office with a proper workshop in Islamabad/Rawalpindi.

PPRA regulations should be followed and purchase committee should be composed of maximum five responsible persons. This procedure on a C and F basis would ensure brand new equipment right from manufacturer’s end and save funds. PIMS is exempted from all government taxes as per the FBR notification.

M. TAZZAM SHAIKH     Karachi