Ludhiana: With only a few days left before the end of the financial year, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) is under pressure to recover pending property tax from nearly 1 lakh taxpayers.
So far, the civic body has collected over Rs 147 crore, against its official target of Rs 160 crore. However, internally, officials have set a higher target of Rs 180 crore, adding to the urgency and pressure to maximize collections in the remaining time.
Officials Hope to Meet Target Despite Challenges
In previous years, the MC had managed to exceed its property tax targets. This year, however, officials are cautiously optimistic and hoping to at least meet the budget target.
MC Superintendent Vivek Verma expressed confidence, stating that the department is making every possible effort to recover dues.
- MC offices are open even on weekends and public holidays
- Field staff are actively reaching out to defaulters
- Special efforts are being made to speed up recovery
Impact of Past Policies and Future Challenges
An MC official pointed out that last year’s One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for old defaulters had an impact on revenue, as interest and penalties were waived, reducing overall collections.
Looking ahead, officials anticipate more challenges:
- Staff deployment for election duties
- Beginning of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in April across Punjab
- Upcoming census-related work, which may further divert manpower
Additionally, employees are already facing pressure, with show-cause notices being issued for delays in pre-SIR field activities.
Mayor Confident, Appeals to Citizens
Ludhiana Mayor Inderjit Kaur expressed confidence that the corporation will achieve both this year’s and next year’s targets, stating that these goals were set after detailed planning.
She emphasized that while officials are putting in strong efforts, citizens must also fulfill their responsibility by paying taxes on time so that funds can be used for development projects.
Penalty Warning for Defaulters
The civic body has issued a strict warning for defaulters:
- A 20% penalty will be charged
- Along with 18% annual interest
This will apply if property tax for the financial year 2025–26 is not paid by March 31.
Conclusion
With a shortfall of around Rs 13 crore, Ludhiana MC is in a race against time to meet its targets. While officials are extending working hours and intensifying recovery efforts, public cooperation will be key.
👉 Residents are advised to clear their dues before the deadline to avoid heavy penalties and contribute to the city’s development.
