The Ulhasnagar Swimming Pool Fee controversy has sparked demands for an official investigation after residents alleged that users of the municipal swimming pool are being charged up to ₹245 per hour despite contractual provisions that, according to complainants, permit a maximum rate of ₹51 per hour. The facility is reportedly operated by Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited. Citizens have questioned the fee calculation methodology, additional charges, and operational policies, while also seeking scrutiny of administrative approvals and compliance with the original agreement. No authority has yet established any wrongdoing, and all allegations remain subject to verification.

Ulhasnagar Swimming Pool Fee Controversy: Allegations of ₹245 Per Hour Charges Despite Contractual Rate of ₹51; Probe Demanded Against Virat Ambe Sports Club

Serious allegations have emerged regarding fee collection at the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation swimming pool, where citizens claim users are being charged up to ₹245 per hour despite a contractual rate allegedly capped at ₹51. Demands for an investigation into Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited and its director, Assan Ballani, are growing.

The Ulhasnagar swimming pool controversy has sparked public concern after citizens alleged that users of the municipal facility are being charged several times more than the rate permitted under the original agreement.

According to representations submitted by local residents, the public swimming pool located behind the headquarters of the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation (UMC) is being operated by Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited, headed by director Assan Ballani.

Citizens have alleged that while the applicable contractual rate should currently be ₹51 per hour, users are reportedly being charged ₹245 per hour, with a discounted rate of ₹200 being presented as a concession.

The allegations have triggered demands for administrative scrutiny, with residents claiming that the issue involves the management of a public asset intended for the benefit of the wider community.

Contract Terms and Fee Calculations Under Scrutiny

According to documents cited by complainants, an agreement executed on 19 December 2002 between the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation and the original contractor fixed the “Casual Daily Ticket Fee – One Hour” at ₹10.

The agreement reportedly provided for a maximum fee increase of 50 per cent every five years. Based on that formula, citizens claim the fee progression should have been ₹10 between 2003 and 2008, ₹15 between 2008 and 2013, ₹22.50 between 2013 and 2018, ₹33.75 between 2018 and 2023, and ₹51 between 2023 and 2028.

Residents allege that a letter submitted by Assan Ballani to the municipal administration on 24 January 2024 proposed a revised fee structure that departed from the original contractual framework.

According to the allegations, the operator reportedly calculated swimming charges at ₹102, added locker charges of ₹35 per hour, imposed ₹70 towards lifeguard and first-aid services, and subsequently added GST, resulting in a total charge of ₹245.

Complainants further allege that citizens are being informed that a reduced charge of ₹200 is being collected due to lower public participation, despite the amount remaining significantly higher than the contractual rate.

Historic Site and Operational Rules Raise Additional Concerns

The controversy has also drawn attention because of the historical significance of the land on which the swimming pool is situated.

According to local records cited by residents, the foundation stone of Ulhasnagar city was laid at the same location on 8 August 1949 by C. Rajagopalachari, the then Governor-General of India.

Residents say the site continues to hold symbolic importance, with citizens gathering annually on 8 August for commemorative events and prayers.

Apart from the fee dispute, complainants have raised concerns regarding operational policies. These include limited swimming hours for men and women, the absence of dedicated timings for children, and an alleged ₹200 visitor fee for non-swimmers entering the premises.

Additional concerns include the reported requirement of a medical fitness certificate for swimming access and allegations that excess charges are sometimes collected without issuance of official receipts.

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Calls for Inquiry and Potential Legal Examination

Citizens have urged authorities to examine whether the fee structure, supporting documentation, contractual compliance, and administrative approvals were implemented in accordance with applicable regulations.

Some complainants have argued that provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections relating to alleged cheating, forgery, document manipulation, and criminal conspiracy, may warrant examination if violations are established through a lawful investigation.

However, no findings of wrongdoing have been made by any court or competent authority, and the allegations remain subject to verification by the concerned agencies.

Residents have called upon the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation, the municipal commissioner, and newly elected corporators to initiate a detailed inquiry into the matter.

They have also demanded that the swimming pool remain operational from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., that only the approved rate of ₹51 per hour be charged if found applicable, and that the licence of Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited be reviewed if any irregularities are established.

Be careful not to state as fact that “all directors are involved” or that it is a “massive scam” unless that has been established by official findings. For legal safety, attribute such allegations to complainants or citizens.

Directors of Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited

According to company records, the directors of Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited include Niraj Assan Balani, Pooja Assan Balani, Assan Lachhmandas Balani, Premchand Shyamkumar Jha, Tarun Parshotamdas Hiranandani, Hiro Rajendra Rajpal, and Kavita Lachhman Balani.

Citizens Allege Multi-Crore Irregularities; Probe Demanded

Complainants and local residents have alleged that the swimming pool fee collection controversy could involve financial irregularities running into crores of rupees. They have demanded a comprehensive investigation into the role of Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited and its management. Sprouts News has sought responses from the company and its directors.

Assan Ballani Responds to Allegations

Speaking to Sprouts News, Assan Lachhmandas Ballani (Balani) denied all allegations related to the operation of the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation swimming pool. He maintained that the claims made against Virat Ambe Sports Club Private Limited were incorrect and stated that the company has acted in accordance with applicable rules and procedures.

As the issue gains public attention, all eyes are now on the next General Body Meeting, where elected representatives are expected to clarify their position on the allegations and the future management of the municipal swimming pool.

Readers’ Appeal: If you have information, documents, or evidence related to matters of public interest, contact investigative journalist Unmesh Gujarathi and the Sprouts News Investigation Team at 9322755098.

Editorial Note:

This article is based on publicly available FIR records, court case references, and reports published by multiple media organisations. The information is presented in the context of ongoing investigations and public interest reporting. Sprouts News does not make any judicial determination regarding the individuals mentioned and does not intend to defame any person or organisation. Any individual seeking clarification or wishing to provide an official response may contact the editorial team with verifiable documentation. The information is presented for journalistic and informational purposes.