PMC nod to convert leasehold properties into freehold assets

Patna: The empowered standing committee of the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) passed the proposal to convert leasehold residential properties into freehold ownership. Residents in areas including Rajendra Nagar, Shri Krishnapuri, PIT Colony and Beur, among others, will be eligible for full ownership rights upon paying a conversion fee equivalent to 10% of the current circle rate.This proposal was a primary focus during the 23rd ordinary meeting of the empowered standing committee on Tuesday, where officials approved 18 agenda items to improve municipal administration. Chaired by mayor Sita Sahu, this policy aims to resolve decades of legal disputes regarding lease violations, illegal construction and transfer complexities, while simultaneously increasing municipal revenue. To qualify for freehold status, allottees must clear all outstanding property dues and ensure their lease deeds are registered.The municipal administration is currently drafting a standard operating procedure to implement the conversion, which requires final approval from the municipal board. Once finalised, the transition is expected to simplify property transactions.Additionally, the committee approved the allotment of two shops to JEEVIKA within the Maurya Lok Complex at a monthly rent of Rs15 per square foot. Furthermore, the committee sanctioned a Rs5 pay raise for permanent daily-wage sanitation workers in recognition of their contributions to city maintenance.

PMC commissioner, Yashpal Meena, said that the PMC has geo-tagged over 56,000 machine holes and 15,000 catch pits. A new “Machine Hole Ambulance” initiative has been launched to carry repair equipment directly to locations reported via the municipal helpline, ensuring prompt response times.The committee also addressed other civic matters during the meeting, including legacy waste treatment at the Ramchak Bairiya dumping yard, monsoon drain desilting and ongoing street light maintenance, among others.