LUDHIANA: The local bodies department has extended the deadline for its one-time property tax settlement scheme to August 15, providing a chance for defaulters who missed the original deadline of July 31. This extension follows an increase in last-minute payments made at civic body suvidha centres throughout Ludhiana.
Launched on May 15, the scheme allows property owners with arrears dating back to 2013-14 to clear their dues without incurring interest or penalties. Initially, the response was sluggish, but it gained traction in July. To date, the department has collected ₹15 crore under this scheme, contributing to a total property tax revenue of ₹40 crore for the current fiscal year.
As per the original guidelines, any dues settled between August 1 and October 31 would incur a 50% discount on interest and penalties. However, with the new deadline, full waiver benefits will apply until August 15, giving taxpayers additional time to settle their accounts.
MC superintendent Vivek Verma confirmed the extension, urging residents to capitalize on this opportunity. “This is a golden chance for defaulters to clear their dues without incurring extra financial burdens,” he stated.
While the extension is beneficial for taxpayers, it has raised concerns among MC employees who have been working overtime, including weekends and holidays, to manage the influx. With Raksha Bandhan occurring on Saturday, staff members are contemplating requesting that suvidha centres remain closed on holidays.
One employee mentioned that pressure would persist even after the scheme concludes, as the civic body shifts its focus to collecting current dues. Taxpayers can also receive a 10% rebate on current dues until September 30, suggesting that offices may remain open on weekends for months to come.
The department has asked residents to cooperate by completing their payments early to avoid last-minute crowds.
