Mapusa Municipal Council Launches Comprehensive Survey to Plug Revenue Leakages
The Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) has initiated a detailed survey aimed at addressing significant revenue leakages within its jurisdiction. This proactive measure comes in direct response to a recent report from the Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA), which highlighted a concerning revenue deficit and called for immediate corrective actions to bolster municipal finances.
Specialized Teams Deployed for Ward-Wise Inspections
To execute this critical initiative, the council has mobilized four specialized teams, each consisting of six municipal employees. These teams are conducting thorough, door-to-door inspections across all wards, focusing on a wide array of properties and commercial establishments. The survey encompasses rented premises, mobile towers, wedding halls, offices, and various other businesses operating within Mapusa.
Enforcing Compliance and Verifying Licenses
Beyond merely checking trade licenses, officials are paying particular attention to tourism-related establishments, including hotels and homestays. They are ensuring these venues strictly adhere to mandated CCTV surveillance requirements and that all permits are valid and up-to-date. This step is crucial for maintaining safety standards and regulatory compliance in the bustling tourist hub.
Focus on the Goa Municipalities Act and Rental Contributions
A central component of the survey is the enforcement of the Goa Municipalities Act, which stipulates that owners of rented properties must contribute one month's rent to the municipality. The teams are actively identifying unregistered rental units and unverified commercial kiosks to ensure full compliance with this legal provision, thereby recovering lost revenue streams.
Crackdown on House Tax Defaulters Imminent
In a parallel effort, the MMC has been compiling a list of house tax defaulters. Starting next month, the council will launch a separate crackdown targeting approximately 3,000 properties with arrears pending for over three years. Authorities have issued a stern warning that failure to clear these outstanding dues will result in stringent measures, including the potential disconnection of essential services such as water and electricity.
This comprehensive approach underscores the MMC's commitment to financial accountability and urban governance, aiming to secure sustainable revenue for community development and infrastructure projects in Mapusa.
