LMC to Launch New App for Property Self-Assessment

The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) is set to launch a new mobile application aimed at enhancing its property self-assessment service. This initiative will also strengthen the existing web-based system by incorporating advanced security features and addressing technical issues. The move is part of LMC's broader efforts to modernize its services and provide citizens with a more reliable and user-friendly platform.

To facilitate these upgrades, LMC has temporarily suspended its existing web-based self-assessment service for 15 days. The suspension is intended to resolve ongoing technical glitches and ensure that the revamped system meets the expectations of citizens. This decision comes in response to numerous complaints from users, highlighting errors and misuse of the current system.

The existing service, launched two years ago, was designed to allow property owners to register their properties online through the LMC website. However, issues such as submission of incorrect property details, changes in ownership names, inaccurate carpet area entries, and modifications to location data have plagued the system. These problems have not only caused inconvenience to users but have also raised questions about the platform's reliability.

LMC Commissioner Inderjit Singh has directed officials to prioritize resolving these issues. "We are developing a new mobile application for the service in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC)," Singh stated. The upgraded platform aims to offer enhanced security features to prevent misuse and ensure accurate property assessments.

A significant concern has been the exploitation of security lapses by some staff members. According to Singh, these individuals manipulated assessment forms, submitted revised tax amounts, and promised taxpayers reduced liabilities in exchange for personal gains. Such activities have undermined the credibility of the system and necessitated a thorough investigation. "These complaints are being actively probed," Singh added.

The process of verifying self-assessment submissions has also faced hurdles. An LMC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that the sheer volume of online applications often led to delays. On-site verification visits were further complicated by disturbances created by property owners, making the process unmanageable. These challenges have underscored the need for a robust digital solution that minimizes human intervention while maintaining accuracy and transparency.

Chief Taxation Officer Ashok Singh noted that the LMC website received around 30–50 applications daily under the current system. The temporary suspension will allow the team to address these issues comprehensively and relaunch a more reliable platform. "The revamped system is expected to provide a more robust and user-friendly experience," Singh stated.

The new mobile application will not only streamline the self-assessment process but also include features to verify property details more effectively. Enhanced data security measures will be implemented to prevent unauthorized access and manipulation. These improvements are expected to restore user confidence and encourage more citizens to use the service.

The LMC’s decision to overhaul its property self-assessment service reflects a growing trend among municipal bodies to leverage technology for better governance. By addressing user complaints and incorporating advanced features, the new system aims to set a benchmark for transparency and efficiency in urban administration.

However, the temporary suspension of the service has created a temporary gap, which may inconvenience property owners. LMC has assured citizens that the improved platform will compensate for the current disruption by offering a seamless and secure experience.

With the anticipated launch of the new mobile application, LMC is poised to set a precedent for other municipal corporations in India. By embracing digital innovation and addressing user concerns, it aims to foster a more transparent and citizen-centric approach to governance. The coming weeks will reveal how effectively these measures translate into tangible benefits for the residents of Lucknow.