Open spaces: BMC likely to double funds

Mumbai: The civic body is likely to almost double the allocation for protection and development of open spaces to Rs 250 crore, said standing committee chairman Rahul Shewale on the eve of the 2012-13 budget's presentation. In the last budget, the BMC had set aside Rs 138 crore for green cover, gardens and playgrounds and beaches. 

    Apart from this, the municipal corporation is likely to hike water taxes by 20% to 30%. If approved, dwellers of residential complexes will have to pay Rs 4.50 for 1,000 litres of water instead of the current Rs 3.50; residents of chawls will have to shell out Rs 3.50 instead of Rs 2.25; and hotels will to pay Rs 30 instead of Rs 25.