Telangana Government Announces Major Urban Policy Overhaul
The Telangana government has unveiled a significant policy shift aimed at transforming urban governance in the state. In a move set to redefine municipal administration, the government plans to replace the existing Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Act with a new Core Urban Act. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance urban infrastructure and streamline development processes across municipal areas.
Focus on Municipal Development in 99-Day Programme
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has directed officials to prioritize development works in municipal areas as a key component of the upcoming 99-day programme. This ambitious initiative, proposed to be launched soon by the state government, will focus on accelerating urban projects and improving public services. Reddy emphasized that municipal development should be given top priority to ensure sustainable growth and better living conditions for residents.
The decision to introduce the Core Urban Act is expected to address long-standing issues in urban planning and governance. By replacing the GHMC Act, the government aims to create a more efficient and responsive framework for managing urban expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and citizen services. This change is seen as a critical step towards modernizing Telangana's urban landscape and fostering inclusive development.
Implications for Hyderabad and Beyond
While the immediate focus is on Hyderabad, the new Core Urban Act is likely to have far-reaching effects across other municipal areas in Telangana. Officials are working on detailed plans to implement the act, which will include provisions for enhanced public participation, transparent governance, and robust monitoring mechanisms. The 99-day programme is designed to kickstart these efforts, with specific targets for completing key development projects.
This policy shift reflects the government's commitment to urban renewal and aligns with broader national trends in urban governance reform. By prioritizing municipal development, Telangana aims to boost economic growth, improve quality of life, and set a benchmark for other states to follow. The success of this initiative will depend on effective execution and collaboration between government agencies and local communities.
