LUDHIANA: As the deadline approaches for property tax payments this fiscal year, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) is still awaiting tax contributions from approximately 100,000 taxpayers. To date, they have collected over ₹147 crore against a target of ₹160 crore, but the pressure remains high as the internal target stands at ₹180 crore.
In previous years, tax collection efforts have exceeded expectations, and officials are hopeful of reaching at least the budgeted target this year. Significant targets have already been set for the next fiscal year.
MC Superintendent Vivek Verma expressed optimism, stating that taxpayer dues will be collected with extended office hours, even on weekends and public holidays. Field staff are also making concerted efforts to ensure collections are maximized.
However, an MC official noted that last year’s one-time settlement for property tax defaulters resulted in waived penalties and interest, adversely impacting revenues. He cautioned that next fiscal year may pose challenges as staff are diverted to election duties, and intensive revision activities will commence in April in Punjab. Currently, employees are receiving show-cause notices for not fulfilling pre-revision tasks.
On another note, Mayor Inderjit Kaur remains confident that both this year’s and the following year’s targets will be achieved, attributing their feasibility to extensive planning and discussions. She emphasized the need for residents to fulfill their civic duties by paying taxes to support development initiatives.
Defaulters Face Increased Charges
Mayor Inderjit Kaur urged local residents to ensure timely payment of property tax and water-sewer bills to avoid penalties.
According to municipal officials, those who do not settle their property tax for the current financial year (2025-26) by March 31 will incur a 20% penalty and an 18% annual interest charge.
