The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has collected Rs 940 crore in property tax between April and October this year, putting it in a tight spot over meeting its annual revenue target of Rs 1,920 crore.
Taken aback by the trend, the civic body has decided to engage bands to play loud music outside the properties of tax defaulters. Besides, tax inspectors have been directed to prepare lists of defaulters in their respective areas.
As per civic officials, of 9 lakh property owners, only 6.6 lakh have paid their taxes so far. As the PMC has added about 1.34 lakh properties in its tax net from the 11 newly merged villages, it expects an increase in its revenue.
Till October-end last year, the civic body had collected Rs 870 crore in property tax. “The property tax department will have to put in extra efforts to meet the annual target. The tax payment remained on the higher side during the first two months as the civic body gave discount for early tax payment. Now, we will be targeting defaulters with high dues,” an official attached to the property tax department said.
The official said bands will be asked to play outside the properties of tax defaulters from the coming week. “Stricter measures will be taken, including sealing of properties for non-payment of dues, thereafter,” he added.