VISAKHAPATNAM: The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has expanded its administrative structure from eight to ten zones and is now in the process of crafting detailed zonal and ward-level development plans. This restructuring is intended to enhance grassroots administration and better align municipal governance with Assembly constituencies.
Previously, with the eight-zone system, there were frequent mismatches, leading to wards being assigned to zones that did not correspond with their constituencies. This situation caused coordination difficulties, procedural delays, and gaps in service delivery. For instance, wards in the Visakhapatnam East and North constituencies fell under different zones, necessitating complex cross-constituency coordination even for routine matters. To rectify these issues, GVMC implemented a “one zone–one constituency” model, creating new zones in Pendurthi and Bheemunipatnam.
As part of its zonal review initiative, GVMC is holding consultations with community members, MLAs, corporators, and other stakeholders to pinpoint civic challenges, infrastructure deficiencies, and priority needs. These consultations in the remaining zones are anticipated to wrap up soon, with draft development plans set to be finalized within three months for future planning and investment.
During the review meeting for the East Zone, local representatives raised multiple concerns, including issues with underground drainage, drinking water shortages, and contamination at drainage crossings. They also highlighted inadequate street lighting, poor conditions of roads and drains, absence of retaining walls in sloped areas, and silted drains. Furthermore, there were reports of sanitation staff and garbage vehicle shortages.
At the Anakapalli Zone review meeting, participants emphasized severe traffic congestion between Anakapalli and Visakhapatnam, advocating for immediate road widening. Other concerns included insufficient sanitation services, drainage issues, water shortages, and the urgent need for upgrades to the sewage treatment plant. Suggestions also encompassed the development of a satellite township, beautification projects, construction of a commercial complex, stadium enhancements, and plans for a garbage transfer station along with designated vending areas.
GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg stated that the zone-wise conferences are crucial for streamlining planning and governance following the reorganization. “These meetings span an entire day, structured into hourly thematic sessions covering topics like development work, street lighting, water supply, sanitation, revenue collection, town planning, and infrastructure,” he explained.
He noted that elected officials and stakeholders are actively involved, providing valuable inputs and recommendations. The aim is to formulate detailed zonal development plans within three months, which will inform priorities and future development activities. Garg underscored that the new zonal framework is intended to boost administrative efficiency and foster decentralized growth across the city.
