Andhra Pradesh ACB Launches Major Crackdown on Town Planning Corruption
The Andhra Pradesh Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) executed a series of surprise inspections across numerous town planning offices in the state on Monday, March 10, 2026. This decisive action was initiated in response to mounting allegations of corruption and procedural irregularities linked to building plan approvals.
Widespread Raids Target Multiple Municipal Corporations
Acting on credible intelligence, ACB officials simultaneously conducted searches at the town planning sections of 12 municipal corporations and 3 zonal offices located in Visakhapatnam. The operations were specifically aimed at addressing complaints that staff members were allegedly soliciting bribes and engaging in misconduct while processing applications under the Building Penalisation Scheme (BPS) and Layout Regularisation Scheme (LRS).
The raids encompassed municipal corporations in key cities including Anantapur, Kadapa, Tirupati, Kurnool, Guntur, Vijayawada, Nellore, Eluru, Rajahmundry, Srikakulam, and Vizianagaram. Additionally, searches were carried out at zonal offices in Pendurthi, Gajuwaka, and Madhurawada within Visakhapatnam.
Unaccounted Cash and Administrative Irregularities Uncovered
During the inspections, ACB officials reportedly discovered unaccounted cash in the possession of certain Town Planning staff members. Authorities have launched a thorough inquiry to ascertain the source of this money and determine whether it is linked to illicit activities.
Furthermore, ACB teams identified several significant irregularities in the approval processes for building plans and the handling of BPS and LRS applications. Officials noted that mandatory records, such as Vacant Land Tax registers, were not properly maintained. Additionally, numerous building approval applications were found to be pending for extended periods without any resolution, indicating potential negligence or deliberate delays.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Steps
ACB officials have confirmed that the searches are still in progress, with a comprehensive investigation underway. Detailed findings and conclusions will be disclosed to the public once the inquiry is fully completed. This crackdown underscores the state government's commitment to combating corruption and ensuring transparency in urban development processes.
The ACB's actions highlight the critical need for accountability in municipal operations, particularly in sectors involving public services and infrastructure development. Stakeholders and citizens are awaiting further updates as the investigation unfolds.
