“The civic body has undertaken large development projects and there is a need to increase taxes, but the middle and the poor will be spared,” the NCP minister said.

He said the NCP is in favour of charging more taxes from those who can afford it in return for better services.

Pawar dismissed the difference of opinion between the NCP and its alliance partners, the Shiv Sena and the BJP, which are against hikes for any section.

“It is not necessary that all alliance partners should have the same opinion on every issue. We will seek a consensus with them.”

Municipal Commissioner Praveensinh Pardeshi justified the proposed hike as user charges for the benefits of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

Pawar touched on various civic issues. He conceded the performance of the public transport utility PMPML is poor.

“I will personally look into the matter and appoint an efficient officer to head the PMPML.”