PMRDA’s ₹40 Cr Green Building Faces Water Waste Row

Pune: The environmental claims surrounding the “green building” of the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) have now come under serious scrutiny. The Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) inside the ₹40 crore building, which received a five-star green rating, has reportedly remained non-functional for several months. As a result, nearly 50,000 litres of drinking water is allegedly being used every day for flushing and gardening purposes.

Taking serious note of the issue, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) administration has now issued a strict seven-day ultimatum to PMRDA. Civic officials have warned that the water supply to the building will be disconnected if the STP is not made operational immediately.

‘Green’ Only on Paper?

Located near Akurdi railway station, the massive PMRDA headquarters building was inaugurated in 2013 by former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan. The structure was projected as a symbol of sustainable and environment-friendly development. However, with the STP remaining shut, recycled water is no longer being used, forcing the administration to rely directly on potable water for non-drinking purposes.

The revelation has sparked criticism against the authority, especially at a time when citizens are repeatedly urged to conserve water resources.

PCMC Begins Action

During an inspection conducted on August 16, 2025, civic officials reportedly found the STP completely non-functional. Following the inspection, PMRDA was fined ₹12,500. Despite repeated notices, no corrective action was allegedly taken, prompting PCMC to initiate the process of disconnecting the water supply.

PCMC Deputy Engineer Yogesh Alhat stated, “A special drive has been launched against non-operational STPs across the city. Recycled water must be used for gardening and flushing; otherwise, there is massive wastage of drinking water.”

Warning of Legal Action

The civic administration has also warned that failure to restart the STP within seven days could invite criminal proceedings under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

The contradiction between the building’s prestigious ‘green’ status and the alleged environmental negligence has now become a major talking point. Citizens are questioning how government authorities preaching water conservation can themselves violate basic environmental norms.

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