PMC to curb use of tap water for commercial purpose

23/5/2018

PUNE: Rajendra Nimbalkar, Pune’s additional municipal commissioner, who currently also holds the charge of the post of municipal commissioner, has said strict action will be taken against water tankers owners filling tankers “illegally” and “selling the same for commercial purposes.”

Nimbalkar was responding to questions raised by media which has revealed extensive corruption and illegalities involving water supply to the city. Media has exposed how Pune is in the grip of a water tanker mafia that operates an annual cash business worth an estimated Rs 100 crore. Corporators across political parties raised the issue at the general body meeting on Monday, demanding action from the administration on the “illegal water trade being run by tankers.”

Avinash Bagwe, Congress leader said that water tankers tapping water from PMC pipelines. Bagwe said, “One one hand residents are not getting water to drink and on the other hand, tanker operators are selling water for commercial purposes.”

Former mayor Dattatray Dhankawade also urged the General body meeting to ensure action is taken against the tanker mafia. “There are many malpractices as concerns water-tankers in the city and an inquiry is needed. Tanker operators are mainly using drinking water for commercial purposes”.

As the voices against the water supply malfeasance grew, mayor Mukta Tilak intervened and instructed the administration to ensure proper management of the city’s water. Commissioner Nimbalkar said, “It is shocking that the PMC water sources are being misused. I am noting the detailed information and will take strict action.”