Taxing time for home owners, civic body

| S VENKATESHWARAN |

Property tax is one of the main sources of income for Greater
Chennai Corporation (GCC), helping to maintain roads,
streetlights, stormwater drains, parks and other public services.
However, civic officials say that a large number of property
owners have still not paid their taxes, affecting the city’s
revenue.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. V. Rama Rao, advisor to the
Federation of Nanganallur Welfare Associations, said the
recent increase in property tax has made it difficult for many
middle-class homeowners. He pointed out that more than 2
lakh property owners are finding it hard to pay their dues.
At the same time, Mr. Rama Rao stressed that tax collection
should not suffer because of a few defaulters. He urged the
Corporation to improve its collection methods by taking strict
action against those who repeatedly avoid paying taxes, while
ensuring that honest taxpayers are not unfairly burdened.
He also suggested better financial planning by the Corporation,
wider tax collection through commercial properties, and
stronger action against long-term defaulters.
According to him, efficient revenue collection will help the civic
body continue infrastructure development and improve public
services across Chennai.

GCC has extended its special property tax collection camps
until July 31, 2026, and has appealed to residents to clear their
pending dues. Officials believe that better tax compliance will
provide the funds needed for road improvements, drainage
works, public health services and other civic projects.
For residents of Nanganallur, Mr. Rama Rao’s comments
highlight the need for a balanced approach — ensuring fair tax
collection, while protecting the interests of genuine taxpayers
and supporting the city’s development.