Patna Municipal Corporation Sees Surge in Property Tax Collection

Patna: In a concerted effort to bolster property tax collection, Patna Municipal Corporation has launched a targeted campaign, dubbed Mission 7 to 11, for the fiscal year 2023-24. The initiative involves door-to-door visits to assess and collect property taxes from residences and establishments within the municipality’s jurisdiction. Commencing on January 22, 2024, this campaign has yielded remarkable results, with a staggering 165 percent increase in tax collection recorded in the first week of February compared to January.

During the month of January 2024, the corporation collected property taxes and garbage fees amounting to Rs 4.13 crore. Remarkably, within the first week of February alone, this figure has surged to Rs 3.53 crore. On average, the Patna Municipal Corporation is now receiving Rs 35 lakh in property tax and garbage fees per day, both through online and offline modes.

Recognizing the need to accommodate the public’s busy schedules, the corporation has announced the extension of counter services to Sundays and general holidays until March 31, 2024. This move aims to facilitate property tax payments for individuals who may face constraints during regular working days.

In a proactive measure, the Patna Municipal Corporation has also reached out to 18 government departments regarding outstanding service fees and solid waste management charges. Approximately Rs 35.80 crore in service fees and Rs 38.73 lakh in solid waste management fees remain unpaid on nearly two thousand properties under these departments. Letters have been dispatched to departments including Education, Health, and Revenue and Land Reforms, urging prompt settlement of outstanding dues.

Stringent actions are being taken against non-governmental defaulters based on the severity of outstanding amounts. Large defaulters are facing attachment actions in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. Additionally, the corporation continues to issue notices to defaulters, ensuring compliance with tax regulations.

To streamline the payment process, property owners are encouraged to utilize mobile payment platforms such as Google Pay, Phone Pay, and Paytm. By accessing the “Pay Bill” category and selecting “Municipal Tax Service,” users can swiftly settle their dues by entering their property ID (PID) and the respective tax amount. Furthermore, residents can opt to pay property taxes by scanning the QR code printed on the identification card of sanitation workers from the Patna Municipal Corporation.

For properties yet to be assessed for tax purposes or those undergoing changes or expansions, property owners can book assessment slots by dialing the toll-free number 155304. Upon booking, a team from the Patna Municipal Corporation will conduct the necessary assessments at the designated address.