Mangaluru City Corporation Intensifies Property Tax Collection Efforts
In a strategic move to bolster municipal revenue, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has officially launched a comprehensive campaign aimed at strengthening property tax collection across the city. The initiative was ceremoniously flagged off with a dedicated campaign vehicle, signaling the commencement of targeted drives to recover pending dues from property owners.
Annual Tax Hike and Payment Convenience
MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Naik announced that the SAS property tax will be collected with a 3% increase, as mandated by government orders. He emphasized the importance of timely payments, stating, "People should pay property tax every year on time without failure." This annual adjustment is based on the market value assessment for 2023-24, ensuring the tax structure remains aligned with current economic conditions.
For the fiscal year 2025-26, following directives from Administrator and Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV, the city corporation will implement the same 3% hike. Commissioner Naik highlighted the convenience of modern payment methods, noting that residents need not visit the MCC office physically. "Sitting in your house, property owners may pay the tax using the online link or may visit the Karnataka One centres," he explained.
Driving Development Through Compliance
The commissioner underscored the critical link between tax compliance and urban development. "If you pay the property tax on time every year, the MCC will be able to undertake various development works in the city. Hence, people should cooperate by joining hands with the MCC for the overall development of the city," he urged. This appeal aims to foster community participation in funding essential infrastructure and public services.
Addressing Pending Dues and Legal Implications
A significant concern raised by the commissioner is the accumulation of unpaid property taxes from previous years among several property owners. In response, the MCC plans to initiate a rigorous drive to collect all outstanding dues. "People should pay the dues of previous years immediately to avoid any action as per law," Naik warned, indicating potential legal measures for non-compliance.
Ward-Wise Survey for Accurate Assessment
To enhance revenue accuracy and efficiency, the city corporation has embarked on a detailed ward-wise survey starting in the first week of January. This effort aims to ascertain the exact number of properties within Mangaluru's 60 wards, where officials report approximately 2.2 lakh properties. The number fluctuates periodically due to additions and deletions, making this survey crucial for optimizing tax collection and ensuring fair assessments across all wards.
This multifaceted approach by the MCC reflects a proactive stance in municipal governance, combining technological convenience with community engagement to secure sustainable revenue streams for urban development.
