MCG Budget: To transform the face of the 'Cyber ​​City' and tackle the challenge of waste management, the Municipal Corporation Gurugram (MCG) is set to present its annual budget today. This budget proposal—totaling ₹1,918 crore and prepared for the financial year 2026-27—will be tabled during a special session of the House at 2:30 PM at John Hall, located in Civil Lines. Presided over by the Mayor, this meeting will also be attended by local Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs).

This time around, the Corporation has set ambitious targets for revenue generation. The largest share of the budget revenue is expected to come from stamp duty, for which a target of ₹500 crore has been established. Additionally:

A plan is in place to raise ₹325 crore through property tax.

Revenue estimates project an income of ₹100 crore from advertisements and ₹40 crore from electricity tax.

Regarding other sources, targets have been set to generate ₹80 crore from water and sewerage charges, and ₹47.5 crore from the auction of properties.

In the current financial year (2025-26), the Corporation has so far managed to recover only 72% (₹1,240 crore) of its set target. Given this context, achieving these new, substantial targets could prove to be an uphill battle for the officials.

Expenditure Blueprint: A Waste-Free City and Improved Infrastructure

The Corporation has made a provision for an expenditure of ₹1,875 crore, prioritizing sanitation and infrastructure development. A sum of ₹400 crore has been allocated to address the city's most pressing issue: 'waste management.' This allocation covers door-to-door waste collection services as well as the procurement of new machinery. Funds will be expended on the construction of new roads, drainage systems, the beautification of parks, and the establishment of community centers. Provisions have also been made for the repair (patchwork) of existing roads, street lighting, and the maintenance of government buildings. Furthermore, funds will be utilized to cover employee salaries, pensions, and medical facilities. Final Approval Awaits House's Suggestions

Following the suggestions and discussions held among councilors during today's meeting, necessary amendments may be incorporated into the budget. Once the House gives its seal of approval, the proposal will be forwarded to the government (headquarters) for final authorization. Interestingly, last year's expenditure on operations and maintenance exceeded the allocated budget by 159%—a matter that could potentially spark heated arguments and uproar within the House today.