In a serious accusation that could have far-reaching political and administrative consequences, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has alleged financial mismanagement amounting to ₹125 crore within the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) Tree Authority. According to the party, irregularities in tree plantation and maintenance projects have led to a total loss of ₹200 crore to the public exchequer. The allegations come at a time when urban environmental concerns are at the forefront in rapidly growing cities like Pune.
At a press conference held on Monday, AAP Pune spokespersons claimed that detailed scrutiny of PMC records, obtained through RTI (Right to Information) applications and internal audits, revealed substantial discrepancies in budget allocation and project execution within the Tree Authority between 2021 and 2024. The Tree Authority, responsible for urban greening, has allegedly overestimated costs, duplicated work orders, and failed to ensure actual tree plantation on the ground.
AAP representatives alleged that out of thousands of trees listed as planted and maintained, a significant number do not exist in reality. “This is a clear case of inflating numbers and siphoning off public funds in the name of greenery and environment,” said an AAP official. The party also presented comparative data showing how similar budgets in other cities have resulted in significantly higher survival rates of planted trees and greater ecological impact.
Moreover, the party criticized PMC’s lack of transparency in contract allotment to private agencies for plantation drives. According to AAP, contracts worth crores were awarded without open tenders or proper post-project audits, violating standard municipal financial norms. The alleged malpractice includes ghost plantations, non-existent maintenance work, and irregular payments.
AAP has demanded an independent probe by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) or a judicial committee into the financial functioning of the Tree Authority. The party also urged immediate suspension of officials and contractors found involved in the alleged misappropriation.
In response, PMC officials have denied the charges, stating that all tree plantation projects undergo routine audits and verifications. However, civic activists and environmentalists have expressed concern over the recurring allegations of inefficiency and corruption within green urban initiatives. “This is not the first time PMC’s plantation drives have come under scrutiny,” said one Pune-based environmentalist. “Accountability is needed when such large public funds are involved.”
