Pune: PMC to Issue ‘Dummy Water Bills’ to Ease Public Fear of Metered Charges
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to introduce ‘dummy water bills’ for residents and businesses across the city and suburbs. The move aims to educate citizens about metered water usage and alleviate concerns before actual billing begins. The proposal, submitted to the Additional Commissioners, is pending final approval from the Municipal Commissioner and will be implemented on a trial basis.
These non-payable bills will display actual water consumption and corresponding charges, helping users understand their monthly usage patterns without any immediate financial burden. The initiative is part of PMC’s Equal Water Supply Scheme, designed to ensure fair water distribution across Pune.
Under the scheme, 2.5 lakh water meters will be installed citywide, with 1.8 lakh already fitted in areas where pipelines have been upgraded. With Pune’s rising population straining water resources, the PMC emphasizes the need for better water management and conservation efforts.
The dummy bills will be sent digitally via email and WhatsApp to minimize costs. Authorities are still deliberating whether actual billing will be monthly or annual.
Nandkishor Jagtap, Head of PMC’s Water Supply Department, stated, “This exercise will familiarize citizens with metered billing and encourage responsible water use before actual payments start. It’s a step toward transparency and conservation.”
Currently, PMC spends 22 paise per liter to supply water. The proposed rates are 8 paise per liter for domestic users and 60-65 paise per liter for commercial users.
By introducing this no-payment-required preview, PMC hopes to reduce public anxiety and ensure a smooth transition to metered water billing—a crucial move for sustainable water management in Pune.
