Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s largest states both in terms of area and population, spans over 240,928 square kilometers. With a population exceeding 19.98 crore as of 2011, it holds the distinction of being the most populous state in India. Additionally, it boasts the highest number of districts in the country, some of which are facilitated by municipal corporations for urban governance. In this article, we will delve into the largest municipal corporation within the Uttar Pradesh state.
What is a Municipal Corporation?
Municipal corporations serve as the backbone of urban governance, responsible for an array of essential services crucial for citizens’ well-being. From public health to sanitation, from infrastructure development to property taxation, these bodies are entrusted with multifaceted responsibilities. Typically headed by a mayor, municipal corporations wield significant power in shaping the urban landscape.
Functions of a Municipal Corporation
Municipal corporations are local government bodies entrusted with various responsibilities aimed at ensuring the efficient functioning and development of urban areas. Here are the functions of a Municipal Corporation:
- Urban planning and development.
- Infrastructure development and maintenance.
- Public health and sanitation services.
- Environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.
- Property taxation and revenue generation.
- Enforcement of regulations and bylaws.
- Social welfare and community development programs.
- Disaster management and emergency response.
- Urban governance and administration.
- Promotion of citizen participation and engagement in local governance.
How many Municipal Corporations are there in Uttar Pradesh
With 75 districts and numerous administrative divisions, Uttar Pradesh accommodates a diverse range of municipal corporations. Amidst its urban sprawl, 17 municipal corporations cater to the governance needs of various urban centers. These corporations, distributed across the state, oversee the development and maintenance of crucial urban infrastructure and services.
Municipal Corporations Across Districts
The following districts in Uttar Pradesh host municipal corporations:
- Kanpur
- Lucknow
- Ghaziabad
- Agra
- Varanasi
- Prayagraj
- Meerut
- Bareilly
- Aligarh
- Moradabad
- Saharanpur
- Gorakhpur
- Firozabad
- Mathura
- Ayodhya
- Jhansi
- Shahjahanpur
Largest Municipal Corporations in Uttar Pradesh
Among these municipal corporations, the largest in Uttar Pradesh is the Kanpur Municipal Corporation. With a recorded population of 29,20,067 as of 2011, it stands as a significant urban center in the state. Established in 1959, Kanpur Municipal Corporation is one of the oldest among the three major municipal corporations in Uttar Pradesh, the other two being Lucknow and Prayagraj.