Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) is unable to collect nearly Rs 260 crore in long-pending service charges from more than a dozen government departments and their offices. Despite reminders every year, the arrears continue to pile up, with the Military Cantt alone owing Rs 120 crore and the Railways Rs 41 crore.
According to the corporation’s revenue department, several government bodies remain major defaulters. The Public Works Department owes Rs 5 crore, the Tourism Rs 1 crore, the Public Health Engineering Department (PHE) Rs 3 crore, the BDA Rs 10 crore and the Housing Board more than Rs 1 crore.
Despite continuous communication and follow-up at the government level, most departments have shown little interest in clearing their dues. Officials believe that if these outstanding amounts are recovered, the BMC’s financial condition would improve significantly.
BMC officials confirmed that, recently, the Gas Relief Department deposited Rs 40 lakh, and efforts are underway to recover dues from the Bhopal Development Authority (BDA).
Rajendra Ahirwar, BMC Zonal Officer, Zone Three said,”notices are being issued to the Military cantt, and the file has been recalled. The payment process from several government departments is underway.”
Department – Dues
Military Cantt – Rs 120 crore
Railways – Rs 41 crore
PWD – Rs 5 crore
Tourism – Rs 1 crore
PHE – Rs 3 crore
BDA – Rs 10 crore
Housing Board – Rs 1 crore+