The Gujarat government will upgrade nine municipalities-Gandhidham, Surendranagar, Porbandar, Vapi, Navsari, Mehsana, Morbi, Nadiad, and Anand-to municipal corporation status within two weeks, increasing the state's total to 17 corporations. This move, announced in the 2024-25 budget, aims to improve local governance and urban services. Administrators, primarily district collectors, will oversee these areas until elections in late 2025. The expansion will extend jurisdiction to nearby villages, with budgetary grants allocated for infrastructure and services like water supply, waste management, and roads. The initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing urban development in Gujarat's rapidly growing regions.
The Gujarat government is set to elevate nine municipalities to municipal corporation status within the next two weeks. This decision follows an announcement made in the 2024-25 state budget, marking a significant change in the governance structure of the state.
The municipalities transitioning to corporation status include Gandhidham, Surendranagar, Porbandar, Vapi, Navsari, Mehsana, Morbi, Nadiad, and Anand. With this move, the total number of municipal corporations in Gujarat will rise to 17. This expansion aims to enhance local governance and improve public services in these growing urban areas.
Key officials from the state urban development department have indicated that the administrative framework for these changes is being finalized. As part of this process, the existing municipalities will be dissolved, and government-appointed administrators will oversee operations until elections can be held. District collectors will serve as interim administrators for the newly designated municipalities. This approach is intended to ensure a smooth transition and maintain governance during the period of change.
In addition to the nine municipalities, there are plans to designate three more towns as municipal corporations in the near future. This expansion reflects the government's commitment to improving urban infrastructure and services, especially in rapidly growing areas. The new municipal corporations will likely incorporate surrounding villages and outgrowth areas, further extending their jurisdiction and enhancing local governance.
The Gujarat government plans to allocate significant grants in the upcoming budget to support the development of these new municipal corporations. This funding will be crucial in addressing the needs of the expanding urban populations and ensuring that essential services such as water supply, waste management, and road maintenance are effectively managed.
Elections for the new municipal corporations are anticipated to take place in late 2025, coinciding with elections for other existing corporations. This timeline allows for adequate preparation and the establishment of necessary administrative frameworks to support the new governance structures.
With these changes, Gujarat aims to strengthen its urban governance and provide better services to its residents, reflecting a broader trend in India towards empowering local governments to manage urban growth effectively.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
