Property owners along Rajiv Rahadari in Hyderabad's Secunderabad Cantonment area are raising serious concerns. They report receiving revised property tax notices for the 2024-25 financial year. These notices show dramatic increases in their tax assessments.
Steep Tax Hikes Reported
The Rajiv Rahadari Property Owners' Joint Action Committee has submitted representations to MP Eatala Rajender. They claim the revised tax demands show increases ranging from 100% to over 300% for many properties. The committee calls these hikes disproportionate and unprecedented.
Infrastructure Work Adds to Burden
Property owners say the timing of these tax revisions makes their situation particularly difficult. The state government is currently undertaking a major road-widening project along Rajiv Rahadari. There are also plans for an elevated corridor on this state highway.
This infrastructure development has created prolonged uncertainty about land acquisition and potential demolitions. According to the joint action committee, this uncertainty has severely affected commercial activity along the stretch.
Commercial Impact and Vacancies
Many buildings now stand vacant as tenants have vacated their premises. Rental values have dropped sharply along Rajiv Rahadari. For numerous property owners, particularly senior citizens, rental income represents their primary source of livelihood.
With properties either empty or generating reduced returns, the revised tax demands are creating significant financial stress for families in the area. Owners report feeling squeezed from both sides - reduced income combined with higher taxes.
Previous Intervention and Renewed Concerns
The issue was previously brought to the attention of the Cantonment Board's chief executive officer. At that time, the matter was reportedly kept in abeyance after considering the prevailing circumstances.
The latest round of tax notices has revived these concerns. Property owners have made fresh representations seeking immediate relief from what they describe as an unfair financial burden.
Specific Demands for Relief
In their representation to MP Eatala Rajender, property owners have made several specific requests:
- Suspension of increased property tax for properties along Rajiv Rahadari
- Assurance that no retrospective tax demands will be enforced
- Continuation of the existing tax structure until road-widening and elevated corridor projects are completed
- Clear communication and clarity for all affected property owners
Broader Context of Urban Development
As infrastructure development continues along State Highway-1, this tax escalation highlights the challenges residents face. Property owners must navigate the dual pressures of urban expansion and fiscal revisions simultaneously.
The situation illustrates how infrastructure projects can have unintended consequences for local communities. While road improvements aim to benefit the broader public, they can create significant hardships for those directly affected by the construction.
The matter now awaits consideration by relevant authorities. Property owners hope for a resolution that acknowledges their difficult circumstances during this period of transition and development.
