Chennai’s ₹2,750 Cr Tax Windfall Triggers Backlash Amid Poor Roads and Civic Services
Despite collecting a record-breaking ₹2,750 crore in property tax and professional tax for FY 2024–25, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is facing sharp criticism from residents, civic activists, and welfare associations over poor infrastructure and inadequate basic amenities.
Citizens Bear the Brunt While Services Lag Behind
Middle-income families, small business owners, and residents of modest homes have expressed frustration over the rising tax burden and lack of visible improvements. While they contribute to the city’s coffers, basic needs like proper roads, street lighting, drinking water, and sewage management remain unmet in several localities.
“I wouldn’t mind paying higher taxes if the civic services matched the increase,” said Ravi, a resident of Kolathur. He highlighted how the tax hike—from ₹2.63 to ₹3.40 per sq.ft—has added to financial stress alongside essential expenses like healthcare and education.
Ward Councillors and Civic Associations Raise Red Flags
R Jayaraman, CPM councillor for Ward 4, criticized the inefficiencies in budget allocation and privatization of services. “The corporation may celebrate its tax collection, but the public feels neglected,” he said, pointing out areas still lacking functional street lights, water supply, and safe roads.
The Alliance of Residents Welfare Associations added fuel to the fire, emphasizing the tax collection ae done by pressuring people—including fines for delayed payments—and how these fail to translate into better infrastructure. “Anna Nagar West is filled with encroachments, second-hand car sellers have occupied roads, and quality footpaths are a dream,” said D Neelakannan, the association’s president.
Singara Chennai 2.0: Vision vs Reality
While the GCC promotes the ambitious “Singara Chennai 2.0” campaign, areas like Sholinganallur, Perungudi, Madhavaram, and Royapuram remain neglected. From dug-up roads left unrepaired to sewage stagnation, the disconnect between promises and execution is palpable.
In Kasimedu, the ongoing Metro Water pipeline work has turned SN Chetty Street into a dusty, dangerous zone. Residents report rising respiratory issues, business losses, and frequent accidents due to poor road conditions.
“Even the traffic police station is layered in dust,” said an officer posted at Kalmandapam. “We wear masks, but it barely helps. People are suffering.”
Business Owners Affected by Poor Maintenance
Local vendors and restaurants in these areas have taken a hit. “Dust settles on the food we serve. Customers complain, and my sales are dropping,” shared a fast-food vendor in Kasimedu. A grocery store owner added he now hires extra help just to clean his store multiple times a day, increasing operational costs.
GCC and Metro Water Respond
According to officials from Metro Water, nearly 90% of the pipeline work in SN Chetty Street is complete. The GCC has assured that road relaying will begin within days and take about 10 days to complete. However, past delays have left citizens skeptical.
Public Demands Accountability, Not Just Tax Collection
Activists like Aarani Srinivasan from Choolai argue that frequent tax hikes and increased guideline values boost the real estate market artificially while neglecting essential services. Residents in Ambattur and Central Chennai complain of blocked sewage lines, unmaintained parks, and poor bus termini despite the tax hikes.
For those planning to purchase or invest in property in Chennai, it becomes crucial to assess civic infrastructure before committing.