Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) finds itself in the midst of a controversy surrounding the rates at electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, sparking public dissatisfaction and raising questions about consistency and municipal oversight. Kunal Khemnar, additional commissioner of PMC, clarified that the determination of charging rates lies solely with the contractor, stirring debate over the transparency and fairness of the arrangement.
Khemnar highlighted the absence of specified restrictions in the agreement, emphasizing that rates must only be lower than prevailing market prices. He stated, “If the contractor prospers, it benefits the civic body, and our goal is to provide charging stations, promoting vehicle adoption.”
PMC commits to daily rate monitoring to ensure rates stay below market prices. Currently, the contractor manages 82 locations for charging stations, with 21 operational and open for public use. However, controversy erupted when the contractor unilaterally raised rates just before the expected inauguration, attributing it to GST charges, contrary to PMC’s prior announcement of rates ranging from Rs 13 to 19.
Vivek Velankar, president of Sajag Nagrik Manch, criticized the lack of transparency and urged the PMC to focus on recovering arrears and conducting a study on charging stations’ impact. He emphasized the importance of an informed decision-making process.
The electricity department initially communicated rates as Rs 13 to Rs 19 per unit, but the launch reported actual rates of Rs 23.60 and Rs 22.40 per unit. This disparity has sparked public dissatisfaction, with citizens deeming the announced rates unreasonably high. With an 8-year agreement formalized, questions arise about the lack of rate consistency and potential future implications.
The absence of municipal oversight in rate adjustments prompts speculation about the sustainability and fairness of the arrangement. Stakeholders seek clarity on PMC’s contingency plans and strategies to address potential rate fluctuations throughout the agreement.
