Maharashtra Starts GIS Mapping Of Properties Across Cities

Over two years after unveiling the plan to implement Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping of properties across its cities, Maharashtra has finally started the process. The state government has informed the Bombay High Court that the satellite mapping of properties in 170 of its 370 cities has started.

It was in May 2016 that a government resolution (GR) was issued where in the state instructed the planning authorities of the 370 cities to undertake the GIS mapping for all properties.

GIS is a technology that allows capturing, storage, analysis and management of geographical data related to a property. It can show different kinds of data on one map.

Why GIS?

When the Maharashtra government proposed mapping of properties, it aimed to use satellite images of properties to keep a tab on illegal constructions and nab property tax defaulters. With the new GIS system, the cities would conduct satellite mapping every six months to identify illegal construction or violation of building laws. Depending on the information collected through the database, city authorities will be able to stop illegal constructions on time.

Property tax evasion is a major cause of behind cities development authorities facing liquidity crunch. GIS mapping of properties would also ensure authorities are able to nab defaulters easily and recover dues accordingly.