GVMC Initiates Ward Bifurcation to Expand from 98 to 120 Wards
In a significant administrative overhaul, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has officially commenced the process of ward bifurcation on Thursday. This move aims to increase the total number of wards from the current 98 to 120, a step designed to streamline governance and pave the way for upcoming municipal elections as swiftly as possible.
Reorganization Based on 2011 Census Data
The bifurcation process is grounded in the 2011 population census, ensuring that each new ward maintains an average population of approximately 15,800, with a permissible variation of plus or minus 10%. This adjustment is crucial for equitable representation and efficient public service delivery across the city. GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg confirmed that the formal reorganization began on Thursday, with the entire procedure slated for completion within a tight 33-day timeframe.
Detailed Timeline and Public Involvement
The GVMC has outlined a meticulous schedule to manage this transition. Key milestones include:
- Ward Division Completion: By April 9, all wards will be divided according to the new boundaries.
- Draft Publication and Feedback: From April 10 to April 16, the draft notification will be made available at prominent public locations to solicit objections, suggestions, and advice from residents.
- Review and Finalization: The draft will be submitted to the CDMA (Commissioner and Director of Municipal Administration) for examination by April 25, with final bifurcation expected by May 2.
- Gazette Issuance: The official gazette notification is scheduled for release by May 5, formalizing the new ward structure.
Background and Broader Administrative Changes
This ward bifurcation follows recent administrative reforms within the GVMC. In late December, the government reorganized the corporation's administrative zones, increasing them from 8 to 10. These restructured zones became operational on January 1. Now, the 120 newly formed wards will be systematically distributed across these 10 zones, enhancing administrative efficiency and local governance.
As per the 2011 census, Greater Visakhapatnam had a population of 19 lakh. The reorganization aims to ensure that each ward aligns with this demographic data, providing clarity on how many wards will fall under each zone. Once the final draft is submitted and the gazette is issued, the State Election Commissioner will announce the election notification, setting the stage for timely municipal polls.
