BBMP Launches Digital Property Tax Recovery Drive in Bengaluru

Introduction

Bengaluru’s civic authority, BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike), has taken a bold step to strengthen its property tax collection. With an outstanding amount estimated at ₹700–800 crore, the BBMP is now targeting 3.75 lakh property owners who have defaulted on their property tax payments.

Through the rollout of digital recovery methods, including e-Khata systems and real-time SMS/email alerts, the BBMP aims to streamline tax compliance and eliminate loopholes in documentation.

1. BBMP Flags 3.75 Lakh Property Tax Defaulters

As part of its crackdown, BBMP has initiated a city-wide digital campaign to send payment reminders via SMS and email to defaulting property owners. Civic officials have been instructed to ensure prompt follow-ups for pending dues, with a clear focus on improving overall compliance.

2. Over 50,000 Khata Applications Pending

Another major pain point uncovered is the backlog of 50,000+ pending Khata applications. Recognizing this as a barrier to faster tax collection, BBMP has now prioritized clearing these applications. Speedier processing means more verified owners, leading to increased transparency and higher tax coverage.

3. BBMP’s e-Khata Initiative

In a move to digitize the entire system, BBMP is set to launch an online A-Khata application platform. This will:

• Allow fresh applications and B-to-A Khata conversions
• Validate ownership, land use, and built-up areas in real time
• Serve as digital proof of legality and tax compliance

Already, over 51,000 e-Khata certificates have been issued in a single assembly constituency through special e-Khata melas.

4. ₹500 Crore Already Recovered

Since the October 2024 launch of e-Khata, BBMP has uncovered nearly 5 lakh discrepancies where residential properties were misclassified or underreported. Through re-verification and reclassification, ₹500 crore has already been recovered — with another ₹500 crore expected.

5. BBMP’s Broader Civic Initiatives

Beyond tax recovery, BBMP is tackling monsoon-related infrastructure repairs and dengue prevention. Cold mix materials are being used to fill potholes, while mosquito-control surveys and awareness campaigns are being run city-wide.

Conclusion

BBMP’s proactive digital transformation in property tax collection signals a new era for civic administration in Bengaluru. The focus on digital khata records, faster approvals, and real-time tracking not only boosts accountability but also empowers property owners with easier compliance tools.

Whether you’re a property owner or real estate investor, staying updated with BBMP’s digital systems is now more critical than ever.

Source – Times Property