Surat: Pragya Nagar Won't Be Charged Property Tax After Demolition

Surat, April 18: The matter came to light after residents of around 700 homes raised concerns about being issued property tax bills for 2025-26 even though evacuation notices had been issued in 2024 and the colony had been demolished in 2025.

Key Developments

• Portal status: When residents checked online, the portal showed no dues pending

• SMC confirmation: No property tax will be charged as the colony no longer exists

Resident Reactions

Anil Lonari, a resident: "Some of us tried to check our dues online, but it now shows nothing is pending. Some residents have been informed that now we will not be charged property tax and we hope the process of development of our new homes also speeds up."

Himanshu Patel, a resident: "This will give relief to my family as we will be able to save some money while we are already paying rent as our homes have been demolished. A large number of families will benefit."

Background

• Pragya Nagar: EWS housing colony with 44 apartment blocks (16 flats each)

• Population: ~3,000 people

• Age: Built around two decades ago

• Reason for demolition: Poor condition of structures

Ongoing Issues

Residents said they have not received financial support for rent because the redevelopment project has not yet begun. They also raised concerns about water charges levied on residents of 15 of the 44 buildings.

Official Statement

An SMC official said: "No property taxes will be charged from Pragya Nagar residents as the colony has been demolished. The process was underway to stop the property tax charge, and it has been completed now."