Property owners in Hubballi-Dharwad may get a permanent Unique Identification (UID) number replacing the existing Property Identification (PID) system, which changes whenever ward boundaries are redrawn or civic records are updated.

The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) is developing a 16-digit UID system aimed at streamlining civic administration and improving tax management. The UID will integrate multiple civic services: property tax payments, water bills, trade licences, road-cutting charges and other fee collections under a single platform. Discussions are underway with Hescom to incorporate electricity meter numbers.

Hubballi-Dharwad is likely to become the second city in South India, after Hyderabad, to adopt such a mechanism. The UID will be introduced after the ongoing door-to-door property survey is completed by December.

Unlike the PID, which changes due to ward delimitation or software migration, the UID will remain permanent irrespective of changes in ward boundaries. HDMC has compiled extensive GIS-based data through aerial surveys with high-resolution imagery providing detailed information on properties and city infrastructure.

Each property will be assigned a QR code containing location-specific details, and UID number plates will be affixed to properties. The system is expected to minimise errors, improve record accuracy and support future technology-driven governance initiatives.

The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation extended the 5% rebate on property tax payment till May 31. Floor leader Iresh Anchatageri sought the extension, noting that property owners faced difficulties due to holidays and festivals in April. Opposition leader Imran Yeligar supported the request. Mayor Jyoti Patil approved extending the deadline by one month.