Austerity Policy Questioned
- Opposition Raises Questions Over ₹49 Lakh Vehicle Purchase Amid Financial Crisis
Pimpri : Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is facing criticism over the decision to purchase luxury vehicles for the Mayor and Municipal Commissioner despite the civic body’s ongoing financial challenges.
The civic administration, which had recently announced an “austerity policy” to control expenses and save energy, has now approved the purchase of a ₹30 lakh Mahindra XEV electric vehicle for the Mayor and a ₹19 lakh Toyota Innova Hycross for the Commissioner directly from manufacturers.
Opposition leaders and social activists have alleged that the decision reflects a lack of financial discipline and is a misuse of taxpayers’ money. PCMC is reportedly facing financial pressure, with several development projects delayed due to shortage of funds. Road repairs, water supply projects, sewage works and health-related initiatives are among the projects affected.
The administration had earlier announced measures including reducing unnecessary expenses, limiting administrative costs and controlling new expenditures. Critics questioned the move, asking, “Are austerity rules only meant for citizens’ development works and not for administrative luxury?”
Vehicle Purchase and Alleged Wasteful Spending
PCMC is spending nearly ₹30 lakh for a luxury ‘Mahindra XEV 9e’ electric vehicle for the Mayor. Although the purchase is being justified in the name of environmental benefits, questions are being raised over spending such a large amount during a financial crunch. Meanwhile, a ₹19 lakh ‘Toyota Innova Hycross’ hybrid vehicle is being purchased for the Municipal Commissioner. Critics allege that despite having vehicles in good condition, the civic body is spending lakhs on new vehicles for status and comfort.
Wastage of Taxpayers’ Money Sparks Anger
Citizens of Pimpri-Chinchwad contribute crores of rupees to the municipal treasury through various taxes and expect better roads, regular water supply and improved healthcare facilities. However, while the administration claims lack of funds for basic civic works, public money is being spent on vehicles for officials and elected representatives. Social organisations and concerned citizens have expressed anger over the decision and demanded that the purchase be cancelled immediately, calling it a waste of taxpayers’ money.
PCMC Approves ₹50 Lakh Vehicle Purchase for Mayor and Commissioner
The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Standing Committee has approved the purchase of new vehicles for the Municipal Commissioner and Mayor. A seven-seater Toyota vehicle will be purchased for the Commissioner’s official use at a cost of around ₹21 lakh including GST and related charges. The vehicle will be bought directly from the company without a tender process. A new electric Mahindra XEV 9e vehicle will be purchased for the Mayor at an estimated cost of around ₹31 lakh including registration, insurance and other charges. The total expenditure for both vehicles is expected to be around ₹50 lakh.
Vehicles on rental basis : Private vehicles are widely used for various departments. Some vehicles cost around ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 per month as rent.
EV Vehicle Numbers Increased; Yet Dependence on Fuel Vehicles Continues : PCMC has 58 EV vehicles, but fuel-based vehicles are still widely used in many departments, limiting the use of electric vehicles.
“PCMC’s decision to purchase luxury vehicles exposes the administration’s double standards. While citizens are struggling with potholes, water shortages and poor civic facilities, the administration is spending public money on official cars. The austerity policy announced by the Commissioner has been ignored. This decision must be cancelled immediately, otherwise we will launch a strong protest.”
- Raviraj Kale, State President, Aam Aadmi Party
