Andhra rationalises urban development authority boundaries

The Andhra Pradesh government has rationalised the territorial jurisdictions of Urban Development Authorities (UDAs) to align with the state's restructured districts and revenue divisions. Three new UDAs, Markapuram, Bhimavaram and Nandyal, have been constituted, with headquarters at their respective towns, Deccan Chronicle reports. The exercise aims to ensure administrative convenience, define jurisdictional responsibilities and improve coordination among UDAs, district administrations and urban local bodies.

Major authorities including VMRDA, Tirupati UDA and Puttaparthi UDA have undergone realignment. The Anantapur-Hindupur UDA has been reorganised as Anantapur UDA, with five ULBs and 26 mandals excluded, according to Deccan Chronicle. The Andhra government has also renamed the Chittoor UDA as Chittoor, Palamaneru, Kuppam UDA, the New Indian Express adds. Municipal administration minister P Narayana said extensive consultations were held with public representatives before finalising changes. Principal secretary Suresh Kumar said the move would provide clearer jurisdictions and smoother coordination. The notification will take effect from its publication in the Andhra Pradesh Gazette.