GVMC Calls for Stronger RWA Role in Civic Issues

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg on Wednesday urged Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to take a more active role in resolving civic issues and supporting cleanliness efforts, stating that community participation is essential for effective urban governance.

Speaking at a review meeting at the GVMC headquarters, Garg said RWAs serve as a vital link between citizens and the municipal administration. He called for closer coordination with officials and asked associations to promptly report local problems.

The meeting was attended by Additional Commissioner P. Nallanayya, AP PERWAS President Uday Shirname, Associate President Dr KSR Murthy, representatives of RWAs from Pendurthi, Gajuwaka, Aganampudi, West and North Zones, and Zonal Commissioners.

RWA representatives highlighted concerns, including damaged roads and drains, inadequate streetlighting, drinking water shortages, development of parks and cremation grounds, stray cattle control, encroachments on government lands, and delays in pending development works.

Responding to the issues, Garg assured that GVMC would continue to prioritise sanitation, drinking water supply, and streetlight maintenance. He said instructions had been issued to relevant departments to address infrastructure complaints.

The Commissioner noted that several of the city’s 167 parks are being maintained by RWAs and encouraged more associations to take up park management under GVMC agreements to improve upkeep and monitoring.

Garg said GVMC is implementing Operation Lungs 3.0 to ease parking constraints by promoting the use of cellar-floor parking facilities. He added that special drives are underway to prevent encroachments in parks and vacant lands.

Citizens can report grievances through corporators, the Puramitra App, or GVMC’s toll-free number 180042500009. Garg said he personally receives petitions every Monday at the public grievance platform.