Zirakpur, Aug. 1 -- On the final day of the Punjab government's one-time settlement (OTS) scheme, the Zirakpur Municipal Council collected a record Rs.12.25 crore in property taxes. The scheme, which ended on July 31, allowed property owners to clear their dues by paying only the principal amount, with complete waivers on interest and penalties.

Launched on July 1, the OTS scheme aimed to provide financial relief to property owners across Punjab while boosting municipal revenues. The response in Zirakpur was particularly overwhelming, with the municipal office witnessing daily footfalls of 200-250 property owners throughout the month, officials said.

The Zirakpur Municipal Council surpassed other councils and municipal corporations in t...