Surat flood relief: Gujarat approves Rs 147 crore grant for 3.54 lakh properties

The decision is expected to benefit owners of around 3.54 lakh residential and commercial properties affected by flooding in Surat, the textile hub of Gujarat. The state government communicated its approval to the SMC through a letter on Friday. According to The Indian Express, the relief covers property taxes and user charges for the 2026-27 financial year. Of the total affected properties, around 3.04 lakh are residential properties, accounting for tax and user charges worth Rs 73 crore.

The remaining 50,500 are commercial properties, with dues amounting to Rs 74 crore. Several parts of the city, including Limbayat, Udhna A and B, and Varachha A and B zones, were severely affected by the flooding. More than 30 people died in the floods. SMC seeks state assistance for Rs 147 crore tax waiver The Surat Municipal Corporation had sought financial assistance from the state government after deciding to waive property taxes and user charges for affected properties.

The proposal was first cleared by the municipal corporation's Standing Committee and subsequently approved by the SMC General Board. It was then forwarded to the state's Urban Development and Housing Department for consideration. The Gujarat government has now approved the relief sought by the civic body, agreeing to transfer the amount as a grant. The state government's letter said heavy rainfall in July had caused widespread inundation in Surat, leaving residents and businesses facing significant difficulties.

It confirmed that property taxes and user charges amounting to Rs 147 crore had been approved for waiver. She said the grant would be transferred to the municipal corporation in the coming days, adding that the financial assistance would ensure the SMC did not have to bear the burden arising from the waiver.