# Bengal Assembly approves more civic wards in Kolkata, Howrah 2026-08-12T17:12:03+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 3 independent outlets The West Bengal Assembly has passed Bills to increase Kolkata Municipal Corporation wards from 144 to 209 and Howrah Municipal Corporation wards from 50 to 68. Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul said smaller wards, based on population changes, would improve civic service delivery. The proposed municipal elections are expected later this year, likely after the festive season. The delimitation has drawn political criticism ahead of the polls. The National Herald reports that opposition parties and sections of the Trinamool Congress fear boundary changes could dilute minority representation or reshape local contests. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said the Election Commission would oversee the process, with a draft notification, a 60-day procedure and two all-party meetings. Critics have sought clearer maps, data and consultation. ## Coverage - hindustantimes.com - nationalheraldindia.com - thefederal.com Tags: civic polls, delimitation, Kolkata Municipal Corporation, ward boundaries, West Bengal Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/bengal-assembly-clears-bills-to-hike-kolkata-wards-to-209-howrah-to-68/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/bengal-assembly-clears-bills-to-hike-kolkata-wards-to-209-howrah-to-68/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.