In a fresh move to improve its financial health, the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation is now turning its focus toward recovering long-overdue water and sewerage bills. Following a recent survey, officials have identified 123 colonies—mostly on the city’s outskirts—where billing for these services hasn’t been happening.
Some of the key areas flagged include 66 Foot Road, Kala Sanghian Road, Maqsudan, Lamma Pind Road, Kapurthala Road, the Leather Complex Area, PS Garden Road, and the outskirts of Rama Mandi, among others. While property taxes are already being collected from many of these colonies, water and sewerage charges have not been recovered due to the absence of an "MC code"—a unique identifier for each colony in the municipal system.
What is an MC code, and why does it matter?
When a colony is officially developed within the city's jurisdiction, it’s supposed to be assigned an MC code. This code enables the Corporation to manage billing and services efficiently. Even when PUDA (Punjab Urban Development Authority) develops colonies and later transfers them to the Corporation, the process includes collecting an EDC (External Development Charges) fee, after which water and sewer bills start getting issued.
However, due to administrative delays, the Corporation often waits two to three years before starting the billing process. This time, the civic body is determined to fast-track things.
Digital mapping and surveys are underway
The work of assigning MC codes to these colonies is now in full swing. Officials are digitally mapping each area and feeding detailed colony data into a computerized system. Once completed, the system will make it easier for the Corporation to track which residents owe how much with just a single click.
Additionally, surveys will also be carried out in 11 villages that now fall under municipal limits, with plans to begin billing them for water and sewerage services as well.
Mayor confirms action plan
Mayor Vaneet Dhir has confirmed the development and emphasized that boosting municipal income through pending sewer and water charges is a priority. “Personnel have been given specific responsibilities to ensure the timely allotment of MC codes in these colonies. Once that’s done, the recovery process will begin,” he said.
As Jalandhar continues to grow, the Corporation is looking to ensure that all developed areas contribute fairly to the city’s upkeep, especially when it comes to basic services like water and sanitation.