Ward-wise audit to boost revenue collection
The Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) is planning to roll out a comprehensive verification drive across the town to plug revenue leakages, with a special focus on rented residential premises and unlicensed commercial establishments.
The civic body has constituted dedicated teams to carry out a ward-wise, door-to-door survey covering residential, commercial and event-related establishments within municipal limits.
Focus on rented premises
At the heart of the drive is the verification of houses and flats that have been let out.
Under the provisions of the Goa Municipalities Act, property owners are required to remit an amount equivalent to one month’s rent to the municipal council. Officials believe that a large number of rented accommodations have either not been declared or are under-reported, leading to substantial revenue loss.
“We have reasons to believe that several properties are being rented without intimation to the council. This survey is meant to ensure compliance with the law and to protect municipal revenue,” a senior MMC official said.
Another official clarified that the exercise is not intended to harass residents.
“This is a regulatory verification, not a punitive drive. If discrepancies are found, property owners will be given an opportunity to regularise their status as per rules,” he said.
Crackdown on unlicensed businesses
The survey will also cover commercial establishments suspected to be operating without valid trade licences.
According to sources, a number of kiosks and small businesses are functioning within MMC jurisdiction without obtaining or renewing mandatory permissions.
“Trade licence compliance is non-negotiable. Businesses that benefit from civic infrastructure must contribute their due share to the municipality,” the official stated, adding that errant establishments may face penalties if found violating norms.
Mobile towers, tourism units under lens
In addition to rented premises and shops, the verification teams will document details of mobile towers, wedding halls and other event venues.
These establishments form a significant revenue component, but discrepancies in documentation and fee payments have reportedly been noticed in the past.
Tourism-linked units – including hotels, restaurants and homestays – will also be inspected to check whether they possess valid permissions and have installed mandatory CCTV surveillance systems.
“We are aiming for a transparent and updated database of all taxable and licensed entities in Mapusa. This will help us streamline collections and improve civic services,” the official added.
