‘One City, One Tax’: Minister Madhuri Misal Advocates Equity for Merged Villages in Pune Municipal Corporation
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 26th June 2025: In a significant push for tax equity and urban development, Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal on Thursday assured that the property tax system in Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits will be restructured to ensure fair treatment for all citizens — including residents of recently merged villages.
Speaking after a comprehensive review meeting with municipal officials, Misal acknowledged concerns raised by residents from incorporated villages who believe they are being taxed more heavily than when they were under Gram Panchayat jurisdiction. “The current disparity in taxation is affecting revenue collection. The PMC should submit a proposal to the state government to restructure the tax system in a manner that ensures equal justice to all property owners,” she told reporters.
The meeting was attended by Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram and Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B. P., among other key civic officials.
Urban Challenges Under the Scanner
Misal also reviewed major civic initiatives and ongoing projects under various departments, including Urban Development, Social Welfare, and Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML). Citing the recurring issue of urban flooding in Pune over the last two years, she said emergency preparedness has been ramped up and ₹80 crore has been sanctioned by the central government for flood mitigation.
“Two major projects will be implemented using these funds,” Misal added. She further stated that the PMC has made substantial progress under the Amrut Yojana, with six new sewage treatment plants (STPs) in progress and ten planned in total.
On the housing front, the minister revealed that around 4,500 houses are proposed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). However, due to limited land availability in the city, alternative schemes may be considered for future expansions at new construction sites.
Focus on Solar Power and Public Transport
Energy and sustainability also featured prominently in the discussions. A 50-megawatt solar power project is in the pipeline to meet the Municipal Corporation’s public electricity requirements. Additionally, a decision has been made to procure 200 new electric buses to strengthen PMPML’s fleet, Misal confirmed.
Air Quality and Infrastructure Boost
As part of the National Green Air Program, ₹350 crore has been allocated to PMC. Of this, ₹200 crore has already been proposed for use in the construction of boundary walls around civic properties — an effort aimed at streamlining urban infrastructure and public safety.
Tax Arrears Under Review
Misal also expressed concern about high levels of unpaid property taxes across the city. “Penalties on arrears have further inflated dues. So far, the PMC has managed to collect ₹9.5 crore in taxes, but much more remains outstanding,” she noted.
सर्वांना समान न्याय मिळेल अशी कर रचना करणार – नगर विकास राज्यमंत्री माधुरी मिसाळ
She concluded by emphasizing the need for transparency and public cooperation in tax recovery and sustainable urban development. “Pune’s future depends on efficient planning, citizen involvement, and a governance model rooted in fairness,” she said.
