Pune: PMC to File Criminal Cases Against Those Opposing Water Meters
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 1st August 2025: In a stern move to enforce its water management plan, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to file direct criminal cases against individuals or groups obstructing the installation of water meters across the city. The administration’s decision follows a review meeting with Maharashtra Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil.
The PMC is undertaking the installation of water meters under the Common Water Supply Scheme in an effort to curb water leakage, regulate consumption, and prevent untreated water from being discharged into rivers. However, resistance from local residents and some political quarters has delayed progress in certain areas.
“Water meters are mandatory for the future sustainability of the city’s water supply system. Obstructing their installation will now attract legal consequences,” warned Additional Municipal Commissioner M. J. Pradeep Chandran in an official communication. He stated that individuals deliberately hindering this civic work would be booked under BNS section 132 or Section 353 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from discharge of duty.
According to the civic administration, the meters will help identify leakages and control overuse of water. The move is also expected to reduce the release of untreated water into natural water bodies. Officials stressed that water meters are crucial given the city’s growing population and increasing demand for water.
The PMC has set a target to complete the installation of water meters on all taps by next month. However, it has also issued a stern warning: continued opposition could lead to a complete cut in water supply in the affected areas.
“The citizens must cooperate with the water department. If not, legal action and water supply cuts are unavoidable,” said a senior official.
The civic body has urged residents to support the initiative in the larger interest of sustainable water usage and efficient infrastructure management.
