Urban Governance
The 74th Amendment to the Indian Constitution (1992) laid the legal framework for urban local bodies, giving them
constitutional status and empowering cities to manage their own development. It introduced the 12th Schedule, listing
key responsibilities such as urban planning, sanitation, public health, infrastructure, and water supply.
In 2011, Gurugram held its first-ever Municipal Corporation elections, marking the formal establishment
of local self-governance. This has allowed residents to directly elect councillors and participate in the
decision-making process for their city. Since then, elections have been held twice, in 2017 and 2025.
Governance Challenges in Gurgaon
While Gurgaon has a municipal corporation, local governance remains complex. Multiple agencies share responsibility,
including Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG), Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP), Department of Town and
Country Planning (DTCP) and other organisations. This fragmentation often leads to overlapping duties, delays in service
delivery, and weak coordination. Despite contributing significantly to Haryana's revenue, Gurugram receives relatively
limited funds, impacting infrastructure and public services.
Strengthening Local Governance
To address these challenges, Gurugram needs a strong and empowered Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG).
Key areas for improvement include:
1. Financial Autonomy
- MCG should have control over revenue sources like property tax, development fees, and municipal bonds.
- Participatory and transparent budgeting processes can ensure funds are used efficiently.
2. Empowerment of the Mayor and Councillors
- Recent amendments allow direct mayoral elections in Gurugram — potentially increasing leadership authority.
- Councillors need more administrative powers for fast local issue resolution.
- Strengthening Ward Committees and Area Sabhas encourages citizen participation.
3. Efficient Service Delivery and Accountability
- Coordination among MCG, GMDA, HSVP, and DTCP is vital.
- E-governance platforms should be expanded for public service tracking and updates.
- Transparency boosts public trust and engagement.
Responsibilities of the Municipal Corporation
The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) is responsible for a wide range of urban services and infrastructure.
These include:
- Sanitation & Waste Management: Garbage collection, sewage, and health campaigns.
- Urban Infrastructure: Roads, bridges, lighting, and planning.
- Transport & Traffic: Local transit and traffic management.
- Public Welfare: Parks, healthcare, affordable housing.
- Environment & Disaster Management: Pollution control and resilience planning.
The Path Forward
Strong and accountable local governance is key to Gurugram’s future. A well-funded and empowered MCG can lead
to better infrastructure, cleaner surroundings, smarter planning, and an improved quality of life.
Citizens play a crucial role. By voting in local elections, attending public meetings, and staying engaged with their
councillors, residents help create a city that works for everyone.
To know more about the Mayor, Councillors, and MCG departments, visit:
For more information on urban governance and citizen engagement, check out: