Hyderabad is preparing for a change as the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Council’s five-year term ends on February 10. After this, a special officer will manage the civic body until new elections take place.
The Telangana government will select a special officer of secretary rank for this role. Meanwhile, GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan will oversee daily operations. According to regulations, municipal elections should occur within six months of the council’s term ending, unless there are specific legal or administrative delays. The last GHMC elections happened in 2020, and new elections are expected soon.
The GHMC has grown significantly. After merging with 27 nearby urban local bodies in December, the number of wards increased from 150 to 300. This expansion extended its jurisdiction from 650 square kilometers to 2,053 square kilometers, making it the largest municipal corporation in India by area and population.
There’s a possibility the GHMC might split into three parts: Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Malkajgiri. The new Hyderabad Corporation would likely be the largest, covering around 150 wards, including areas like Tarnaka, Musheerabad, Jubilee Hills, and Banjara Hills. Cyberabad may consist of the northwestern and northern parts, while Malkajgiri could cover the eastern side from Keesara to Pedda Amberpet. However, the government hasn’t made any decisions regarding this division yet.
