PMC earned Rs 2.3 cr as octroi on March 31

While the civic body has collected Rs 1,314.27 crore as octori in the entire 2012-13, it collected a whopping record breaking worth of Rs 133 crore in the month of March, of which Rs 2.3 crore was collected on March 31.u00a0

In protest: Shops and petrol pumps remained shut to protest against the government's decision to charge LBT yesterday. All 26 octroi collection points were also shut down by PMC. Pic/Krunal Gosavi

Around 40,000 traders from the city have approached the PMC in the last fortnight for payment their taxes. "Despite recession, the PMC almost attained its target in terms of revenue," said Vilas Kanade, head of the LBT department.

With LBT coming into effect from yesterday, traders and manufacturers will now have to pay a lump sum amount for a specific period to bring their goods to the city. The LBT is expected to cut down corrupt practices.

"We have organised workshop for the PMC employees to explain the structure of LBT and also online system. We are sure about getting a good response from the people too," Kanade added. u00a0