Phagwara MC appeals for timely property tax payments, launches Lok Kalyan Mela

The Municipal Corporation (MC) Phagwara has urged residents to pay their property tax for the financial year 2025-26 by September 30 to avail a 10 per cent rebate. MC Phagwara Commissioner Dr Akshita Gupta announced that the civic body’s office would remain open on weekends and gazetted holidays until the deadline, ensuring residents have ample opportunity to clear their dues.

Dr Gupta emphasised the significance of timely property tax payments, stating that the revenue generated is vital for funding enhanced civic amenities and infrastructure development. “We encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity and pay their dues before the deadline to benefit from the rebate,” she said.

Mayor Rampal Uppal also supported the Commissioner’s appeal, highlighting that citizen cooperation is crucial for the city’s growth. He stressed that timely payments help strengthen development projects and ensure the seamless execution of civic services. The Municipal Corporation has assured that its staff will be available to guide and assist taxpayers throughout this period, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and ease of service.

In a related initiative, Dr Gupta announced the launch of the Lok Kalyan Mela, which began on Wednesday and will continue until October 2 at the Municipal Corporation office. The event aims to support public welfare and has set up special facilitation counters for beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme.

This flagship program of the Government of India seeks to empower street vendors by offering collateral-free working capital loans. The loans are available in three tranches: up to Rs 15,000 repayable within 12 months, up to Rs 25,000 repayable within 18 months, and up to Rs 50,000 repayable within 36 months. Applicants are required to submit a duly filled form, Aadhaar card linked to a mobile number, two recent passport-size photographs, bank account details and a mandatory affidavit.

Dr Gupta encouraged street vendors to take full advantage of the scheme, which will help strengthen their livelihoods by providing easy access to formal credit and working capital. She urged eligible vendors across Phagwara to participate in the Lok Kalyan Mela and benefit from the assistance being offered.