“The authority is seeking public opinion on the report submitted by consultant. The approach paper will be finalised only after taking into consideration the opinions expressed in the consultation meeting,” Ajit Nimbalkar, chairperson of MWRRA, said.

He said there would be regulations framed for the authority based on the approach paper and then only the process for deciding tariff would begin.

The MWRRA is in the initial stages, Nimbalkar said, “This is the beginning for the authority which is only empowered to decide water tariff for bulk users.”

The MWRRA chairperson said the revenue model for deciding water tariff is also to be ascertained as many factors like quality of water, seasonal, paying capacity of the user has to be taken into consideration.

Earlier, Shramik Mukti Dal member Bharat Patankar pointed out that the MWRRA was putting wrong foundation for the authority by considering the report of a private consultant. If the MWRRA does not revise the approach paper, social organisations will launch a statewide agitation, he said.

BJP leaders Ujjwal Keskar and Yogesh Gogawale said that they oppose the entire process of the regulatory authority.

CPI (M) legislator Narasaiah Adam and party leader Ajit Abhyankar demanded the rejection of the report and focus should be on equitable distribution of water.