HYDERABAD: The Telangana government has introduced the draft Core Urban Region (Integrated Governance) Bill, 2026 (CURE Bill), citing the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Act of 1955 as inadequate for the rapidly expanding metropolitan area.
The government is now inviting suggestions and feedback from citizens, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), industry groups, professional organizations, and other stakeholders on the draft until July 24 via the official websites of the three municipal corporations in Greater Hyderabad.
While many provisions of the GHMC Act are retained, the new legislation proposes numerous reforms aimed at governance, environmental sustainability, and public safety, addressing the needs of a city that has grown from 1.5 million residents to approximately 13 million.
Officials explain that the GHMC Act has struggled to accommodate the city’s increasing geographical scope and the complexities of urban management, resulting in gaps in governance and service delivery.
“The Bill aims to create a consolidated governance framework for CURE while allowing for multiple municipal corporations. It seeks to decentralize administration, improve governance efficiency, and ensure equitable distribution of responsibilities among officials,” stated a senior Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) official.
The draft includes plans for sustainability and civic administration improvements, such as mandatory electric vehicle (EV) charging in buildings, required treatment and reuse of greywater, a Climate Action Framework, a Green Energy and Carbon Transition Fund, and dedicated cells for labor welfare and heritage conservation.
Gender Inclusion Cell
The bill suggests establishing a Gender Inclusion Cell to enhance safety and accessibility for women and transgender persons in CURE. This cell will conduct gender audits, advise on inclusion measures, and host sensitization programs on rights for women, transgender individuals, and sexual minorities.
Authorities will be tasked with ensuring well-lit public spaces, gender-segregated restrooms, inclusive infrastructure, adequate surveillance, and equitable access to jobs.
Climate Action Framework
A Climate Action Cell will be created to develop a comprehensive Climate Action Plan, conduct climate risk evaluations, and support climate adaptation strategies. The bill mandates climate-proofing urban infrastructure through the establishment of shaded areas in public spaces to mitigate extreme heat and associated climate risks.
Government building projects will be required to utilize recycled construction materials when possible, and a Lake Protection Committee will be formed to oversee the protection and restoration of local lakes.
Disaster Management Authority
The proposed legislation will also set up a Disaster Management Authority for CURE, focusing on disaster preparedness, response, and risk mitigation. A detailed Disaster Management Plan will outline the roles of local authorities and emergency procedures throughout the metropolitan region.
Traffic Management and Road Safety Authority
To manage congestion and enhance mobility, a Traffic Management and Road Safety Authority will be created. This authority will develop traffic management plans, coordinate street designs with mobility strategies, and implement intelligent traffic systems to minimize accidents and congestion.
Strengthened Fire Safety
The Bill allows the government to engage third-party agencies to conduct fire safety audits on buildings prior to issuing compliance certificates. These audits will evaluate adherence to fire safety standards, with powers to enforce immediate corrective actions where significant risks are identified.
Food Safety and Nutrition Committee
To bolster public health, the draft proposes a Food Safety and Nutrition Committee responsible for overseeing food safety standards across Hyderabad. The committee will assess the enforcement of food safety regulations, identify deficiencies, and recommend improvements in food hygiene and nutrition practices.
