The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken a strict stance against chronic defaulters at the prominent Maurya Lok Complex, issuing a final seven-day notice to hundreds of shop and office occupants.
Rs 3.66 Crore Debt Triggers Stern Action
Following a detailed review of records, the civic body discovered that 278 shops and offices within the complex have collectively failed to pay outstanding maintenance charges and ground rent amounting to a staggering Rs 3.66 crore. A senior PMC official revealed that while some occupants are regular with payments and a few have minor recent arrears, a significant number have not cleared their dues for an astonishingly long period.
"Records show unpaid balances dating as far back as 1998 for some establishments," the official stated, highlighting the extent of the accumulated debt over decades.
Seven-Day Deadline to Avoid Disconnection
The notice mandates the settlement of all outstanding amounts within one week. The PMC has warned that failure to comply will result in immediate disconnection of electricity and water supplies without any further warning. This drastic step is being considered to enforce compliance and recover the substantial public funds.
To facilitate easy payment, the corporation has provided both online and offline options. Owners can clear their dues digitally through the official PMC portal or by visiting the municipal office in person to make a physical payment.
A Final Call to Settle Long-Standing Liabilities
The civic body's directive is a clear final opportunity for the defaulters. All shop and office owners are being urged in the strongest terms to clear their long-standing liabilities immediately. The aim is to avoid the severe inconvenience of utility disconnection and to prevent potential legal action that the PMC might be forced to initiate for recovery.
The action underscores the municipality's drive to improve fiscal discipline and ensure that commercial entities fulfill their basic civic financial responsibilities, which are crucial for the maintenance and upkeep of public complexes like Maurya Lok.
