Dharwad: In a historic decision, the Karnataka state cabinet has approved the bifurcation of the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC), paving the way for the creation of the Dharwad Municipal Corporation (DMC). This move comes after two decades of demands from Dharwad residents, who cited discrimination in development projects.
While residents are thrilled with the decision, experts caution that the new DMC will not be operational immediately. Due to existing laws and procedures, the process could take two to three years. Established in 1962, HDMC currently has 82 wards—56 in Hubballi and 26 in Dharwad—making it the second-largest civic body in Karnataka after the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). The current term of HDMC corporators runs until August 2026, and the Karnataka Municipal Corporations (KMC) Act does not allow for mid-term elections or early termination of corporators’ terms.
The government has initiated formalities for DMC’s creation, starting with a notification from the Urban Development Department. A 30-day period will be provided for public objections, followed by a final notification and a gazette announcement. While there are calls to include 18 surrounding villages within the new DMC limits, no expansion will occur as ward delimitation was finalized in 2021.
Dharwad already has essential infrastructure in place, including a central corporation office, a renovated general body meeting hall, and four zonal offices, reducing the need for additional expenditures. HDMC Commissioner Ishwar Ullagaddi confirmed that public objections will be invited soon.
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