By Tejas

Pune, August 9, 2024: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is set to closely monitor the ongoing property survey conducted by a private firm to ensure its accuracy. The survey, being carried out by Sthapatya Consultants Private Limited, aims to identify new, expanded, and change-of-use properties within the city. To avoid property tax evasion, the municipal administration has decided that its own team will verify the correctness of the survey. Any discrepancies found will result in action against the firm.

Currently, Pimpri-Chinchwad has around 630,000 registered properties, but estimates suggest that nearly 200,000 properties may be unregistered, overcrowded, or have undergone a change of use. Previous property surveys in the city failed to uncover the expected number of new properties, prompting the administration to employ drone technology for a more thorough examination.

As the survey progresses, property owners are being notified immediately if their properties are identified in the process. They are also given the opportunity to voice objections or offer suggestions. The municipal tax collection and taxation department will conduct random checks to verify whether the survey has been carried out properly.

The inspection process will focus on whether the firm has accurately assigned property numbers, captured internal measurements, and recorded correct usage information. Additionally, the team will check for any properties that may have been omitted from the survey.

A three-member team, consisting of an assistant divisional officer, clerk, and chief clerk from the divisional office, will oversee the inspection process. This team will carry out internal checks across various divisions of the city, ensuring that the survey results are accurate.

PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh emphasised the importance of the survey, stating that any negligence by municipal officials or employees in ensuring accurate property documentation will result in disciplinary action. "If the officials and employees of the Municipal Corporation appointed to ensure the assets in the survey are negligent, action will be taken against them," warned the commissioner.