Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI: A substantial debt of about 50 crores is owed to the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP), with house taxes making up about 60% of the total. This sizeable amount that is still outstanding is the result of several problems, including legacy issues.
Tenants at the market have allegedly not paid rent since the market’s construction in 2003, which is one of the main problems. The total amount owed, including compound interest, is currently between 20 and 25 crores. Furthermore, unpaid property taxes from taxpayers in arrears have increased the strain on CCP’s operations.
In addition to having an adverse effect on CCP’s financial operations, nonpayment of these dues also causes problems for vital services like garbage collection, pre-monsoon work, and cleaning. It is difficult for CCP to continue providing basic services because so few taxpayers are meeting their obligations.
CCP Mayor Rohit Monserratte stated that CCP is taking action to recoup the outstanding amounts in order to address these concerns. Correcting procedural errors—such as signing contracts with tenants who are in default—could result in an instant 8–9 crore profit. In addition, CCP is looking into ways to make money off of its properties in order to eventually lessen the load on taxpayers.
Speaking about ongoing smart city initiatives and the getting ready for the impending monsoon season, Mayor stated that CCP has taken proactive steps. It has exchanged information about flood zones and infrastructure upkeep with the managing director of the Smart City. Furthermore, CCP is working with the appropriate authorities to guarantee that the infrastructure projects that are required to reduce the risk of flooding are completed.
Notwithstanding ongoing difficulties, CCP is dedicated to making sure that smart city projects are carried out smoothly and that the city is ready for the monsoon season. In order to address infrastructure needs and minimize disruptions to critical services, collaboration between CCP and the authorities overseeing the Smart City project is essential.
