Pune: Government Offices Owe Rs 342 Crore in Water Bill Arrears, Citizens’ Forum Demands Action from PMC
Pune, 16th September 2025: Water bill arrears amounting to ₹342 crore are pending from various central and state government offices within Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits. The Sajag Nagrik Manch, a citizens forum, has questioned the civic body over the delay in recovery and sought a clear response from Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram.
According to Sajag Nagrik Manch president Vivek Velankar, data obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act revealed the staggering dues. The Cantonment Board alone owes ₹40 crore, the Garrison Engineers ₹50 crore, the Railways ₹45 crore, Sassoon Hospital ₹8 crore, and Yerwada Jail ₹7 crore. In addition, arrears worth several lakhs have accumulated from other central establishments such as the Post Department and BSNL, as well as state offices including the Water Resources Department, Police, and Education Department.
Velankar has demanded that PMC adopt strict measures to recover the dues, including disconnection of water supply if necessary. He cited the example of former Commissioner Mahesh Zagade, who had ordered a water supply cut to the Cantonment Board a few years ago, resulting in prompt payment of arrears.
“Same rules should be implemented for common citizens and government establishments. This will send a message that the municipal corporation’s role is equal for everyone,” Velankar said.
PMC Water Supply department head Nandkishore Jagtap confirmed the challenges in recovery. “We have held two-three meetings in the past to get government offices to pay their dues, but there has been no response. Many water meters in these offices are damaged. We are ready to replace the meters and adjust the cost against bills, but even that has not been accepted. A senior-level meeting will now be convened to address this issue,” Jagtap said.
The Sajag Nagrik Manch has urged the civic body to take decisive steps, warning that continued inaction could encourage further disregard for payment obligations by government establishments.
