MAPUSA
The Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) has approved a budget of Rs 59.75 crore for the financial year 2024-25, refraining from announcing any new development works in town due to the enforced election code of conduct.
The budget highlights the municipal council's reliance on government funds, with an estimated Rs 14 crore of revenue depicted as grants-in-aid received from the State and Central government through the 15th Finance Commission.
Despite setting a revenue generation target of Rs 59.75 crore, the council anticipates expenditure to reach Rs 66.74 crore, resulting in a deficit budget of Rs 6.99 crore. Key revenue sources in the new fiscal year include Rs 12.50 crore from house tax, Rs 4.5 crore from construction license fees, and Rs 3.70 crore from rent of buildings, shops, and stalls.
Additionally, market cess collections and pay parking are expected to contribute Rs 1.90 crore and Rs 1.20 crore respectively. The MMC has allocated Rs 3 crore for "other development works" such as roads and gutters from municipal council funds, while Rs 50 lakh has been earmarked for desilting of wells, road repairs, drains, and footpaths, and Rs 20 lakh for the development, repairs, and maintenance of gardens, urinals, offices, and garages.
Notably, despite the municipal library being closed for over three years, the council has allocated Rs 17.50 lakh for the establishment of a librarian in the current fiscal year. Opposition councillors have criticised the budget, labelling the estimates as unrealistic and accusing the council of failing to take adequate steps to boost revenue.
Shashank Narvekar, councillor from ward 5, criticised the lack of tangible asset creation in Mapusa, stating that promises of substantial work have not materialised on the ground. In response, MMC Chairperson Nutan Bicholkar explained that the election code prohibited the initiation of development works due to the ongoing parliamentary elections. She emphasised that the budget prioritised overcoming day-to-day municipality functions and ensuring the completion of pre-monsoon works without hindrance.
Bicholkar acknowledged delays in the collection of house tax and other levies but assured efforts to improve revenue collection by addressing existing gaps in the system.
