Concern voiced over fee collection dispute between HSATI, HMC

HYDERABAD: Chairman of the Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade & Industry (HSATI) Zubair Ghangra has expressed deep concern over the ongoing dispute between the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (HMC) and SITE Limited regarding tax and fee collection in the Hyderabad SITE area.

He stated that the imposition of unclear, overlapping, and in some cases, unlawful charges has created unrest within the industrial sector. He emphasised that this dispute is not only destabilizing Hyderabad’s industrial economy but also poses a serious threat to the future development of the entire region.

Numerous industrial units have reported to HSATI that HMC staff have been collecting generator fees, parking fees, road-usage charges, and several other unclear levies, while SITE Limited maintains that these collections fall outside HMC’s lawful jurisdiction. Such forced and unauthorized collections are significantly increasing the cost of doing business and undermining investor confidence.

The Chairman affirmed that HSATI is willing to cooperate with all government departments, particularly HMC and SITE Limited. However, he stressed that the final solution must be constructive, lawful, and aligned with the interests of the industrial community. He noted that the SITE area serves as the economic backbone of Hyderabad, and it must not be allowed to suffer due to administrative conflicts.

He urged the committee to complete its work on a priority basis and issue a decision that is not only legally sound and fair but also supportive of industrial growth. HSATI hopes that this dispute will be resolved soon so that the industries of Hyderabad can continue moving forward on the path of sustainable development.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025