The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is poised for a significant transformation as it prepares to become “Maha Hyderabad.” The State Cabinet is expected to approve the establishment of a unified single urban local body by extending the GHMC’s jurisdiction to encompass the Outer Ring Road (ORR). The proposed new entity, tentatively named “Hyderabad Greater City Corporation” (HGCC), aims to include several existing municipal corporations, municipalities, and villages within its fold, fostering a more cohesive and efficient urban management structure.
According to informed sources, the Telangana Municipal Administration department has meticulously drafted the proposals, which will be presented to the State Cabinet on August 1, 2024. Following this, a draft bill is slated for introduction in the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council on August 2. The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to streamlining urban governance and enhancing the region’s infrastructure and development.
The expiry of the terms of the elected bodies in the Gram Panchayats presents a unique opportunity for restructuring. The government plans to merge these Gram Panchayats within the ORR boundaries with nearby municipal corporations or municipalities. In cases where such mergers are impractical, new urban local bodies (ULBs) will be established to manage clusters of Gram Panchayats. The Panchayat Raj and Rural Development (PRRD) department has been tasked with the de-notification of these entities, paving the way for a more integrated urban framework.
The overarching goal of this expansion is to ensure uniform development and planned growth across the Greater Hyderabad region. By consolidating administrative functions and resources under the HGCC, the government seeks to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation and provide a more streamlined service delivery model. This transformation is expected to enhance civic amenities, improve infrastructure, and promote balanced development across the newly defined urban landscape.
As Hyderabad continues to grow as a major metropolitan hub, the creation of the HGCC represents a proactive approach to urban governance. The government’s vision for “Maha Hyderabad” aims to position the city as a model for integrated urban planning, capable of accommodating the needs of a diverse and expanding population. The success of this initiative will hinge on effective implementation and the seamless integration of various municipal entities into the new structure. The upcoming cabinet meeting and legislative sessions will be pivotal in shaping the future of Hyderabad’s urban management. The proposed changes herald a new era of governance, promising to redefine the city’s trajectory and enhance its stature as a leading metropolis in India.
