Special Correspondent
Pimpri Chinchwad: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has taken a tough stance on property tax defaulters, sealing 43 residential and commercial properties with outstanding dues exceeding Rs 1 lakh. Despite initiating two auction attempts, there has been no interest from potential buyers.
In response, the civic body is gearing up for a third and final auction. If property owners or bidders fail to come forward this time, the corporation will take possession of the properties at a nominal bid price.
Stalled Auction Efforts
The combined valuation of the seized properties stands at Rs 221.53 crore. Despite repeated efforts, neither the property owners nor potential buyers have shown interest in clearing dues or participating in the auctions.
To recover outstanding taxes, the PCMC’s tax department sealed 43 properties, comprising 23 residential and 20 commercial units, with dues ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 8 lakh per property. The first two auction rounds yielded no registrations despite public notifications and detailed listings, prompting the decision for a final auction attempt.
Final Opportunity for Property Owners
Assistant Commissioner of the Taxation and Collection Department, Avinash Shinde, emphasized that this is the last chance for defaulters. “A 20-day window will be offered from the announcement of the third auction. If the original owners settle their full dues, including auction expenses, within this period, their properties will be withdrawn from the process. If no response is received, the civic body will acquire the properties at a nominal price,” Shinde explained.
Strict Measures for Recovery
PCMC’s recovery drive aims to send a clear message to defaulters while ensuring that the civic body recovers pending dues crucial for its operations. As the third auction approaches, property owners are urged to settle their arrears promptly to avoid losing their properties.
This decisive step underscores the civic body’s determination to streamline tax recovery and maintain financial accountability.
