Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its property tax recovery efforts by employing its distinctive "band playing" tactic to publicly shame defaulters.

The campaign, which resumed recently, has resulted in the recovery of ₹9 crore within just three days and the sealing of 19 properties that failed to clear their dues.

Property Tax Default: The Numbers

According to PMC data, there are 14.8 lakh registered property owners in the city. Among them, 8.73 lakh property owners have paid ₹1,798 crore in taxes for the ongoing financial year 2024-25. However, 6.06 lakh defaulters collectively owe ₹9,000 crore, posing a significant challenge to the civic body.

To meet its annual target of ₹2,727 crore, the PMC has adopted an aggressive approach as only ₹1,798 crore has been collected so far, with just four months remaining in the financial year.

Band Tactic in Action

The civic body has formed five dedicated teams under 15 ward offices to expedite recovery. From December 2 to December 4, these teams visited 156 properties, recovering ₹9 crore in dues. In cases of continued non-payment, 19 properties were sealed.

Deputy Commissioner of the Tax Collection Department, Madhav Jagtap, explained that the initiative will be further intensified in the coming days to maximize collections.

As the deadline for the financial year approaches, the PMC aims to pressure defaulters into compliance through a mix of public shaming, direct visits, and property sealing. Officials have assured that the campaign will maintain its momentum.