Puri, Jan 15: More than 500 acres of government land in Puri have failed to generate any revenue for decades, as leaseholders continue to occupy and expand properties even after the expiry of their lease terms. Despite enjoying basic civic facilities such as drainage, electricity, and drinking water, many establishments have not paid a single rupee in revenue to the municipal body, officials said on Thursday.

Lease Expired, Business Continues

Officials said leases granted between 1974 and 1997 covering 504.37 acres of land have not been renewed since 1997. Yet, businesses and individuals continue to operate on these plots. In several cases, single-storey structures have been converted into multi-storey complexes without fresh approvals, while authorities remain silent.

Breakdown of Land Allocation

Records show that of the total leased land, 178 acres were allotted to government institutions, 52 acres to domestic organisations, and 271 decimals to individuals. However, no fresh lease agreements have been executed since 1997. The Revenue Department has staked claim over the land, leading to a prolonged legal dispute with the municipal body.

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Revenue Loss and Legal Dispute

In 2023, a draft was prepared to include the land under the names of current occupants for revenue collection, but the gazette notification has not been issued. As a result, the government continues to lose crores of rupees annually. Civic activists and residents have criticised the administration for failing to act, while legal experts have pointed to the misuse of property rights.

Call for Government Action

Municipal officials admitted that the absence of clear policy has led to massive revenue losses. “Every year, the government loses crores from these lands. Unless a decision is taken soon, businessmen will continue to profit from public property without paying dues,” said Abhimanyu Behera, Executive Officer of Puri Municipality.