Drain-top buildings to face higher tax in Sambhajinagar; crackdown on direct sewage discharge

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Buildings constructed over major drains and nullahs, even with official permissions, will face increased property tax, as the municipal corporation moves to address recurring monsoon flooding and obstruction in desilting operations. Among the structures likely to be affected is the Shiv Sena (UBT) Bhavan in the city.Municipal commissioner Amol Yedage took the decision after inspecting key drainage stretches at Kabadipura, Barudgar nala, Sambhaji Peth and Roplekar Chowk, where he found several large constructions built over nullahs with civic approval. Officials informed him that the buildings had been approved by the corporation. Yedage then ordered increased property tax on such constructions, and asked for revision of the tax bracket, as such constructions create major impediments to the task of nullah cleaning.“Debris and waste tend to accumulate beneath the buildings constructed over the nullahs, making it impossible to carry out cleaning operations to their full potential. Consequently, water drainage is obstructed during the monsoon season, thereby increasing the risk of flood-like situations,” Yedage said.The move is expected to impact a large number of property holders, as several structures across municipal limits have come up over drainage channels.During the inspection, Yedage also ordered strict action against direct discharge of sewage into stormwater drains and announced a special enforcement drive. “This practice results in sewage mixing with the drain water, causing constant contamination, spreading foul odors, and diminishing the natural carrying capacity of the nullahs. In particular, during periods of heavy rainfall, this leads to an accumulation of excess water in the drains, creating a heightened risk of localised floods,” he said.He further directed officials to issue notices to properties releasing domestic or commercial wastewater into drains and ensure their connection to sewage treatment plants (STPs).“The city’s drains are meant only for carrying rainwater. Direct discharge of sewage into them reduces their capacity and creates environmental as well as public health concerns,” the commissioner said, warning of strict action against violators.During the visit, Yedage also inspected the municipal health centre in Kabadipura and intervened in infrastructure lapses. At Roplekar Chowk, he directed a contractor via video call to immediately shift an exposed water pipeline underground.The commissioner warned that negligence in monsoon preparedness, drain cleaning and water management will not be tolerated.