In a significant development, Congress leader Aba Bagul has urged the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) to share 50% of the non-fare revenue generated from the city’s commercial properties with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). The demand comes as Maha-Metro explores avenues to monetize its commercial spaces at parking lots and stations beyond ticket sales.
In a letter addressed to the municipal commissioner on Thursday, Bagul emphasized that as Maha-Metro received land from PMC, it is only fair for the civic body to receive a substantial portion of the income generated from the commercial properties. Bagul argued that even if the land was provided to Maha-Metro at no cost, a 50-50 revenue-sharing agreement should be upheld.
The Congress leader cited a previous resolution approved by the PMC standing committee and general body, endorsing the revenue-sharing arrangement with Maha-Metro. Bagul expressed concern that attempts are being made to circumvent this decision due to the absence of elected members in the current administration.
Bagul asserted that, in the absence of proactive measures by the municipal commissioner to ensure revenue sharing, he is prepared to escalate the matter to the court for a legal resolution.
As the debate over revenue sharing intensifies between Maha-Metro and PMC, it remains to be seen how the municipal commissioner will respond to Bagul’s demand for an equitable distribution of non-fare income.
