Recent data reveals a stark disparity in the utilisation of the Early Bird Scheme (EBS) for property tax payment within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) circles.
While affluent zones like Serilingampally, Chandanagar, and Moosapet exhibit robust engagement with the EBS, areas in the Old City such as Chandrayangutta, Falaknuma, Santoshnagar, and Karwan witness a pronounced lag in participation. According to the latest insights from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), property owners across various GHMC circles have displayed contrasting behaviours towards the Early Bird Scheme (EBS), a facilitative measure aimed at property tax payment. Notably, affluent zones including Serilingampally, Chandanagar, and Moosapet have emerged as the frontrunners in embracing the EBS, exemplified by the substantial participation of taxpayers. Conversely, regions encompassing the Old City, notably Chandrayangutta, Falaknuma, Santoshnagar, and Karwan circles, witness a perceptible downturn in EBS utilisation. This dichotomy in engagement underscores broader socio-economic disparities within Hyderabad’s urban fabric. The data underscores Serilingampally’s dominance in EBS utilisation, with a staggering 58,455 property owners contributing approximately Rs 108.99 crore, followed closely by Chandanagar and Moosapet circles. Conversely, circles such as Chandrayangutta, Falaknuma, Santoshnagar, and Karwan exhibit subdued participation, indicating systemic challenges in incentivising prompt property tax payment within these localities.
Despite concerted efforts to promote digital channels, including online payment gateways and Citizen Service Centres (CSCs), disparities persist in payment modalities. While a significant portion of taxpayers opts for online channels, a notable segment still relies on traditional methods such as bill collectors and Mee Seva centres. In sum, the disparities in EBS utilisation spotlight broader socio-economic nuances within Hyderabad’s urban landscape, underscoring the imperative for targeted interventions to foster equitable participation in municipal initiatives.