Residents in the 34 merged areas have expressed strong opposition to any increase in property tax. They argue that the PMC has not provided adequate facilities in these areas, such as quality roads, clean water, and sewage treatment. Currently, the PMC has not recovered Rs 1,245 crore in taxes from these merged regions.

The civic body previously organized a drive to seal the properties of tax defaulters, but this initiative was halted after complaints from local leaders and residents about the heavy charges, especially ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in March 2024.

In the previous financial year, PMC collected around Rs 2,280 crore from property tax and Rs 2,400 crore from building permissions. To enhance tax recovery, the PMC has implemented various measures, including a special drive for tax collection and actions like property confiscation and auctions.

The PMC continues to work on strategies to meet its tax collection goals while addressing residents’ concerns.