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 waiver on interest and penalties. The scheme was launched on July 1. The MC surpassed other councils and municipal corporations in the district in total collections, said officials. "The response from residents was highly encouraging. We are expecting the final tally to increase further, as many taxpayers came forward on the last day," said a senior official from the council. Executive officer Jagjit Singh Judge thanked the Punjab government for launching the OTS initiative, noting that it had significantly improved the council's financial position. "Those who failed to pay their dues under the OTS scheme will now face legal action. Identification of defaulters has already begun," he added....