Patna: The Bihar government is set to expand its urban governance structure by forming new urban local bodies and upgrading existing ones. The Urban Development and Housing Department has initiated this process and directed all District Magistrates (DMs) to submit proposals without delay.
As per official sources, this move comes in light of the growing urbanization across the state. Many small markets and semi-urban areas have seen significant development and now meet the criteria for becoming municipal bodies.
Currently, Bihar has 262 urban bodies, including municipal corporations, municipal councils (Nagar Parishads), and Nagar Panchayats. In 2020, the government had created 121 new urban bodies. The latest exercise aims to further streamline urban administration and improve delivery of civic services.
Expansion and Upgradation on the Cards
The department’s letter to DMs highlights that several small but fast-developing areas are eligible to be declared as Nagar Panchayats. Meanwhile, some existing Nagar Panchayats may be upgraded to Nagar Parishads, and larger Nagar Parishads could be elevated to Municipal Corporations, based on population and infrastructure needs.
In addition, area expansion of several existing urban bodies will be considered due to the outward growth of urban settlements.
Criteria and Data Requirements
The department has sent standardized forms to all districts, seeking detailed proposals. These must include:
- Population data of the proposed area
- Number of employees and agricultural workers
- Total area in square kilometers
- Population density
- Jurisdiction boundaries, police station limits, and a detailed map
Classification of Urban Bodies Based on Population:
Type of Urban Body – Population Range
Municipal Corporation – More than 1.5 lakh
Municipal Council (Nagar Parishad) – 30,000 to 1.5 lakh
Nagar Panchayat – 9,000 to 30,000
Benefits of Becoming a Municipal Body
Officials say that areas included or upgraded under municipal limits will benefit from:
- Planned development through master plans
- Garbage collection and improved cleanliness
- Enhanced drainage, street lighting, and water supply
- Better coordination in urban governance
The Urban Development and Housing Department believes that this restructuring will pave the way for more efficient civic administration, particularly in rapidly growing peri-urban zones.
