GVMC Steps Up Election Preparedness, Inspects Counting Centres At AU Campus
GVMC commissioner Ketan Garg inspected proposed counting centres at Andhra University and directed officials to ensure comprehensive arrangements ahead of the 2026 civic elections.
Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) commissioner and additional election authority Ketan Garg on Monday directed officials to make comprehensive arrangements for counting centres and election material distribution centres ahead of the GVMC second ordinary elections 2026, for which notification is expected shortly.
Ketan Garg inspected the proposed counting venues on the Andhra University campus, including the new classroom block and the departments of Instrumentation, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Economics. He also visited the Principal Block and the School of Social Sciences.
During the inspection, he directed officials to identify suitable rooms for counting operations and ensure adequate ventilation, lighting and uninterrupted power supply. He also instructed them to arrange seating in accordance with election guidelines and provide strong rooms, reception centres and food counters.
Additional commissioners, the chief engineer, chief city planner, zonal commissioners and officials from the engineering and town planning wings were asked to prepare detailed plans for counting halls and route maps well in advance.
Officials were also directed to conduct regular inspections, review arrangements and address shortcomings promptly to ensure that all facilities were ready before polling.
Ketan Garg said ballot boxes and other election materials had already been moved to designated distribution centres in all zones. He instructed zonal commissioners to inspect the centres personally and ensure the availability of reception areas, attendance counters, food counters, police assistance booths and parking facilities.
He stressed the need for precautionary measures to prevent inconvenience during the distribution of election materials and ensure the smooth movement of election personnel. He directed officials to coordinate their efforts and complete all poll-related arrangements in strict compliance with election norms and guidelines.
