The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) commemorated a significant milestone on Monday, celebrating two decades of its establishment. The anniversary event took a special turn as the civic body chose to honor the city's responsible citizens—those who have consistently paid their property and vacant land taxes on time.
Citizens Recognized as Partners in Progress
Under the initiative named "Visakha Pragati Bandhu", these conscientious taxpayers were formally felicitated. The GVMC head office hosted a ceremony where individuals received certificates and mementos in recognition of their timely contributions. The program saw the presence of key civic leaders, including Mayor P Srinivasa Rao, Deputy Mayor Dalli Govindaraju, and Municipal Commissioner Ketan Garg.
Additional Commissioner DV Ramanamurthy and Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Srinivasa Rao were also among the officials who joined the celebrations, which featured a traditional cake-cutting ceremony.
Tax Revenue Fuels City's Infrastructure
In his address, Mayor Srinivasa Rao expressed heartfelt gratitude to the citizens. He emphasized that their cooperation through timely payment of property and water taxes has been instrumental in driving Visakhapatnam's development. The Mayor outlined how these funds are utilized, stating that GVMC maintains over 3,600 kilometers of roads and drains. This extensive infrastructure upkeep, he noted, is crucial for keeping the city clean and attractive for future investments.
Commissioner Ketan Garg reinforced the critical link between citizen tax payments and public service delivery. He explained that the revenue generated from taxes forms the backbone for providing essential services and developing infrastructure. To make the process easier for residents, the corporation has taken a significant step. The number of tax facilitation centers has been expanded from 8 to 20, aiming to improve accessibility and customer service for all citizens.
A Collective Effort for a Better Visakhapatnam
The event was not just a governmental function but a gathering of various stakeholders in the city's growth. Corporators, officials, and representatives from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives attended the program alongside the memento recipients. The celebration underscored a shared vision for Visakhapatnam's progress, positioning timely tax compliance not as a mere obligation but as a vital partnership between the people and their civic body.
The 20th-anniversary event ultimately served as a reminder that sustainable urban development is a collaborative mission. The GVMC's recognition of its 'Pragati Bandhus' (Progress Friends) highlights the essential role every citizen plays in building the city's future through their responsible actions.
