PCMC launches ‘Siddhi 2.0’ project for property tax bill distribution

PCMC insists on verification of mobile numbers through OTP

Following the successful implementation of last year’s initiative to distribute property tax bills through Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has decided to continue the same distribution process for the fiscal year 2024-25. Additionally, the civic body has urged citizens to verify their mobile numbers linked to their property through OTP authentication.

With a total of 625,000 registered properties in Pimpri-Chinchwad city, the bills have been printed and distribution has commenced. Notably, this year, the bill features a Unique Property Identification Code (UPIC), a feature aimed at streamlining municipal services. The UPIC ID, assigned to properties undergoing geo-sequencing in the ongoing survey, is designed for easy recall and is set to be extended to all properties in subsequent years, promising enhanced accessibility of municipal services to the citizens.

In a bid to modernize services, the civic body’s tax collection and taxation department transitioned all services and facilities online last year, with offline applications no longer accepted. Emphasizing the importance of a linked mobile number, property owners are urged to ensure mobile number verification through OTP authentication via the Siddhi app provided to women’s SHG members. Cooperation in providing OTP during bill payments is crucial, as services cannot be accessed without a verified mobile number. Also, this step is very important in terms of preserving the data privacy of municipal property holders.

Moreover, as of March 31, 2023, a staggering 75,858 property owners in the city have outstanding dues exceeding Rs 10,000 which totals Rs 717.32 crore. Pre-seizure notices are being issued to these defaulters alongside the property tax bills.

Zone-wise, the tax collection and taxation department identified the Chikhli zone with the highest defaulters at 10,209, followed by Thergaon with 7,772, and Wakad with 6,915, while Talwade zone reported the least defaulters at 1,694.

Additionally, amid preparations for Lok Sabha elections in Maval, Shirur, and Baramati constituencies, the Tax Collection Department is doubling efforts to increase voter turnout. Alongside property tax bill distribution, election awareness pamphlets provided by the District Election Office are being distributed door-to-door, demonstrating a holistic approach toward civic engagement and governance.