Panchkula: The Panchkula municipal corporation (MC) has recovered only ₹4.3 crore of its total ₹108 crore outstanding property tax dues in the first two months of the current financial year. Facing slow recovery pace, municipal commissioner Vinay Kumar has ordered officials to intensify collection efforts before the 100% interest waiver scheme expires this month.Out of the total ₹108 crore liabilities, nearly ₹40 crore is pending from major defaulters whose individual dues exceed ₹2 lakh. The commissioner has instructed officials to identify these major defaulters on priority, issue notices according to prescribed rules, and launch an extensive public awareness campaign regarding the deadline.The corporation is offering a 100% waiver on interest applicable to property tax dues for the year 2024-25 until June 30. Officials have been directed to ensure taxpayers are well-informed about this concession so they can settle their liabilities within the stipulated window.“Timely payment of property tax is the responsibility of every conscientious citizen,” Kumar said, urging residents to clear their dues and contribute to the city’s development.The commissioner warned that the MC will adopt a stricter approach after the waiver period ends, stating that those failing to pay within the timeframe may face legal action.“If required, the municipal corporation may also resort to measures such as sealing defaulting properties to recover outstanding dues,” he said.Officials have been instructed to place special emphasis on major defaulters and closely monitor collection targets to improve the corporation’s financial position and ensure better delivery of civic services.
