Pune Residents Allege Exploitation by PMC-licensed Plumbers for Water Connections

Mohammadwadi, 10th May 2026: Sitting corporator from Mohammadwadi Ward No. 41, Nivrutti Anna Bandal, has demanded strict action against PMC-licensed plumbers and contractors who are allegedly exploiting citizens while providing new water connections. The demand comes after several residents and housing societies complained that some licensed contractors were charging nearly Rs 50,000 for new water connection work.

Reacting to the complaints, Bandal said residents should not be forced to pay exorbitant amounts for basic civic amenities such as water connections. He stated that if any licensed plumber or contractor is found taking undue advantage of citizens by demanding unreasonable charges, strict action should be initiated against them.

“I will raise this serious issue in the PMC General Body meeting and demand accountability from the administration. PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram and Additional Commissioner Pavneet Kaur are aware of the concerns of residents, and I am confident they will not allow such exploitation to continue. The entire process of providing new water connections must be transparent, affordable, and citizen-friendly so that housing societies and residents are not harassed financially,” Bandal said.

Advocate Kishor Baligar also expressed concern over the alleged overcharging. He said demanding Rs 50,000 from housing societies for basic water connection work was unacceptable and raised serious questions about transparency in the system.

“Citizens should not be forced to pay arbitrary amounts for essential civic services. If such complaints are emerging repeatedly, the PMC administration must investigate the role of licensed plumbers and ensure accountability. A transparent and standardised fee structure is necessary to protect residents from exploitation,” Baligar said.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is responsible for providing essential services to the residents of Pune, including water supply, sanitation, and public health. The corporation has been working to improve its services and ensure that all residents have access to basic amenities. However, the recent allegations of overcharging by licensed plumbers and contractors highlight the need for stricter oversight and regulation to prevent such practices.