GVMC Shortlisted for Bloomberg Mayors Challenge 2025, Launches Climate Resilience Initiative

Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has been named one of 50 finalist cities in the Bloomberg Mayors Challenge 2025, a global competition that highlights bold ideas for urban innovation. The recognition reflects the city’s focus on tackling climate challenges with people-centered, sustainable solutions.

At a meeting on Wednesday, GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg introduced the Vizag–Prajamukhi Urban Living Lab (V-PULL), the core of Vizag’s entry. The initiative invites residents to share ideas that strengthen climate resilience in Ward 19, Siva Ganesh Nagar, an area especially vulnerable to floods, cyclones, and heatwaves.

“We’re honored to be selected from over 600 cities worldwide,” said Commissioner Garg. “This recognition reflects our dedication to creating people-centered, sustainable urban solutions.”

V-PULL is designed as a collaborative platform where citizens, experts, and institutions work together to co-create practical and scalable strategies. The model builds on earlier workshops in Ward 41 and now shifts its attention to the unique challenges faced by fisherfolk families in Ward 19.

Community participation is central to the project. Residents can share suggestions on the GVMC website, through social media, or by scanning QR codes on posters placed across the city. A series of co-creation workshops will run through September in Ward 19, bringing together citizens, municipal staff, and technical experts.

The launch event featured SRU Ms. Swapna, Project Manager Mr. Emmanuel Neelgiri, and Jr. Community Engagement Officer Ms. Jahnavi, who are leading roles in the V-PULL initiative.