GVMC team explores Jodhpur’s civic development models

A delegation from the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), led by Mayor Peela Srinivasa Rao, visited the Jodhpur Municipal Corporation (South) on Friday as part of a study tour.

GVMC Secretary B.V. Ramana said the team, which included corporators and officials, held a formal meeting with Jodhpur Mayor Vanita Seth and Commissioner Siddharth Palanichami. Both sides gave presentations on their civic initiatives and ongoing development projects.

Jodhpur officials explained their approaches to solid and liquid waste management, sanitation, water use, and greenery development. They also highlighted measures taken to improve services in fast-growing urban areas.

The GVMC team shared Visakhapatnam’s practices in urban planning and infrastructure management. Their presentation included revenue generation, transport systems, junction improvements, parks and public spaces, water treatment, drainage and sewage systems, street lighting, landscaping, and waste-to-energy projects. Officials from both cities said the exchange created opportunities to learn from each other’s experiences.

After the meeting, Ms. Seth and Mr. Palanichami presented mementoes to the GVMC delegation as a gesture of goodwill.

Such municipal study tours are held across the country to help civic bodies adopt proven models from other cities while adapting them to local needs.

Speaking after the interaction, Mayor Srinivasa Rao said, “Urban challenges may differ from city to city, but innovative solutions in areas like waste management and water conservation can be replicated. Our visit to Jodhpur has given us valuable insights that we hope to adapt for the betterment of Visakhapatnam.”