Coimbatore: Councillors question drone use for property tax assessment
ECONOMY & POLICY

Coimbatore: Councillors question drone use for property tax assessment

Several councillors expressed their concerns at the Coimbatore Corporation Council meeting regarding discrepancies in property tax assessments conducted using drones.

In response to the queries, corporation commissioner M Sivaguru Prabakaran explained that drones were utilised to identify residential buildings that had been converted into commercial ones, detect plan violations, and spot new buildings that had not been assessed. He added that besides drone surveys, corporation officials would physically measure these properties.

He mentioned that the measurement details would be sent to the building owners as a notice, giving them a 15-day period to respond. Prabakaran further stated that if property owners had valid objections, the existing property tax would continue to apply. However, if any violations were found, the tax would be increased. He noted that the corporation had received only a few complaints about the survey and taxation process and emphasised that accurate assessments would generate revenue for the city, which is necessary for funding many infrastructure projects.

This meeting was the first presided over by Mayor K Ranganayaki after her election on August 6, with Deputy Mayor R Vetriselvan also in attendance. During the session, 83 resolutions were presented, of which all but three were passed. Among the rejected resolutions was one proposing a fixed monthly fee for users of indoor sports courts in 17 wards, and another suggesting a revision of the building permit fee for residential buildings exceeding 3,500 sq ft to Rs 88 per sq ft.

Despite objections from the chairperson of the finance and taxation committee, V B Mubasheera, the meeting also approved 17 resolutions related to finance, revenue, and taxation.

Several councillors expressed their concerns at the Coimbatore Corporation Council meeting regarding discrepancies in property tax assessments conducted using drones. In response to the queries, corporation commissioner M Sivaguru Prabakaran explained that drones were utilised to identify residential buildings that had been converted into commercial ones, detect plan violations, and spot new buildings that had not been assessed. He added that besides drone surveys, corporation officials would physically measure these properties. He mentioned that the measurement details would be sent to the building owners as a notice, giving them a 15-day period to respond. Prabakaran further stated that if property owners had valid objections, the existing property tax would continue to apply. However, if any violations were found, the tax would be increased. He noted that the corporation had received only a few complaints about the survey and taxation process and emphasised that accurate assessments would generate revenue for the city, which is necessary for funding many infrastructure projects. This meeting was the first presided over by Mayor K Ranganayaki after her election on August 6, with Deputy Mayor R Vetriselvan also in attendance. During the session, 83 resolutions were presented, of which all but three were passed. Among the rejected resolutions was one proposing a fixed monthly fee for users of indoor sports courts in 17 wards, and another suggesting a revision of the building permit fee for residential buildings exceeding 3,500 sq ft to Rs 88 per sq ft. Despite objections from the chairperson of the finance and taxation committee, V B Mubasheera, the meeting also approved 17 resolutions related to finance, revenue, and taxation.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

REC Transfers HVDC Project to Power Grid

REC Limited has successfully handed over the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for a High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission project to Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL). This strategic move aligns with the nation's objectives to strengthen its power transmission network. Key Highlights: Project Overview: The HVDC project, under the inter-state transmission system (ISTS) initiative, is a critical component of India's push toward robust and efficient electricity transmission. It aims to handle bulk power transfer across long distances while ensuring minimal losses. Role of RE..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

NF Railway Collaborates with IIT Guwahati

The Northeast Frontier (NF) Railway has signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with IIT Guwahati to foster technological advancements and improve railway operations in the region. This partnership focuses on innovative solutions to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in rail infrastructure. Key Highlights: Purpose of MoUs: The collaboration aims to leverage IIT Guwahati's expertise in technology and research for implementing cutting-edge solutions across railway operations. Key areas of focus include: Automation and digitization in maintenance. Sustainability initiati..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Danapur Division Modernization Plans Revealed

The Railway Board has unveiled ambitious plans for the expansion and modernization of the Danapur Division, a critical hub under the East Central Railway. The initiative focuses on infrastructure development, enhanced passenger amenities, and operational efficiency. Key Highlights: Scope of Modernization: The Railway Board's blueprint emphasizes: Upgrading existing infrastructure to accommodate more passenger and freight traffic. Improving station facilities, such as platforms, waiting areas, and connectivity. Introducing advanced signal systems for safer and smoother operations. Freig..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000