The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to pause the implementation of the proposed ‘User Fee’ for garbage collection following a directive from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Development Minister Eknath Shinde. The review was called in light of concerns over the additional financial strain on citizens caused by the recent hike in property tax bills.
Under the Cleanliness and Sanitation Bylaws 2025, households and commercial establishments would have been levied varying monthly charges based on their size. Properties up to 50 square metres were to pay Rs 100 per month, those between 50 and 300 square metres Rs 500 per month, and properties larger than 300 square metres Rs 1,000 per month. Hotels and clinics were expected to pay between Rs 1,500 and Rs 7,500 monthly.
This proposed user fee met with widespread opposition from residents and political groups, especially as it came shortly after the controversial 15% increase in property taxes. Many citizens felt the additional charge was unfair, leading to mounting public pressure. Consequently, civic authorities, acting on the Chief Minister’s directive, have halted the fee’s implementation for the time being.
Vinod Gholap from the Fight for Right Foundation welcomed the decision, calling it “a great relief for common citizens already burdened by rising taxes.” However, a BMC official noted that the user fee is legally mandated, with other cities like Bangalore and Pune having already implemented similar charges.
Between April 1and May 31, the BMC sought public feedback on the proposed user fee, penalties for littering and spitting in public, and garbage segregation rules. Over a thousand suggestions and objections were received via online platforms and WhatsApp. While most opposed the new fee citing their existing property tax payments, several residents called for stricter enforcement of solid waste management regulations.
Source: The Free Press Journal
