HDMC cracks whip: Double tax for unkempt open sites

Hubballi: The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) will collect double tax on open sites if they are not maintained properly, following persistent complaints and field observations that many such plots are left unattended, creating public health and civic issues in surrounding neighbourhoods.The move to levy double tax aims to enforce accountability where repeated warnings and routine appeals have failed to yield results.According to HDMC records, Hubballi-Dharwad has a total of 1,35,463 open sites. Officials noted that many of these have effectively turned into garbage dumping yards, with accumulated waste attracting mosquitoes and worsening sanitation. The problem is also linked to the presence of stray cattle and dogs around such plots, causing inconvenience to residents and raising concerns over safety and hygiene.At a recent general body meeting, corporators from both ruling and opposition sides demanded strict action against such sites, citing mosquito-borne disease risks.Officials said poor upkeep of vacant plots has become a recurring problem, especially in areas where waste remains uncleared for long periods. Unattended sites often turn into mosquito breeding grounds during stagnant water conditions, prompting repeated public complaints.

Following directions from elected representatives, HDMC has decided to step up monitoring and act against plot owners violating maintenance norms. HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali said the measure aims to ensure cleanliness and prevent dumping.Mayor Jyoti Patil said officials have been directed to levy double tax on poorly maintained open sites.