KTR launches GHMC ward officers system to address civic issues locally

System aims to revolutionise governance and service delivery in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD: Marking a significant milestone in the city's administrative reforms, Telangana Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister (MA&UD) K Taraka Rama Rao inaugurated the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) ward office system in Kachiguda on Friday.

“The ward office system aims to streamline civic services and ensure faster access for the residents of Hyderabad. The system enables the GHMC to swiftly address public issues and deliver efficient solutions by bringing services closer to the communities,” he said.

Outlining the key features of the system, KTR acknowledged the existing dearth of bureaucracy at the ward level and highlighted how the ward office system would bridge this gap, enhancing local governance. He called upon all public representatives to work together for the success of this system, He assured that the state government would extend full support to the ward offices, irrespective of the political parties represented by the public representatives.

“The success of this system in Hyderabad has the potential to serve as a model for other cities across the country,” felt KTR adding that it could revolutionise governance and service delivery.

The ward offices would be headed by assistant municipal commissioners, responsible for overseeing various departments. A dedicated team of 10 officers from departments such as road maintenance, sanitation, entomology, town planning, electricity, and water supply will operate from these offices. This team would ensure that issues related to these departments were monitored and addressed efficiently at the ward level.

KTR said that the state government planned to attach additional officers from departments such as health and police to the ward offices in future, ensuring comprehensive service delivery.

KTR laid emphasis on the government's commitment to the programme, stating that the new system extended beyond just appointing officers. “Necessary arrangements for their efficient management and coordination will be made to ensure optimal functioning of the ward offices. Citizens can expect prompt solutions to their problems through this system.” He also highlighted the availability of a citizen’s charter that outlined the responsibilities and services provided by GHMC through the ward offices.