The proposed expansion of the Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BeMC), aimed at bringing 34 revenue villages under its jurisdiction, continues to remain pending despite Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s announcement in December 2025 regarding the creation of Greater Berhampur.
As part of the proposed expansion, 34 revenue villages spread across 14 Gram Panchayats are expected to be merged with the BeMC. However, the process appears to be facing further uncertainty with the Housing & Urban Development Department seeking clarification from the Directorate of Census on the possible impact of the proposed merger on the Census 2027 exercise.
The move has sparked concerns among local residents, who fear that the expansion process could face additional delays. The fact that the clarification has reportedly been sought nearly eight months after the Chief Minister’s announcement has further raised questions over the pace of implementation.
The 34 revenue villages proposed for inclusion in the BeMC currently fall under Ankushpur, Dakhinapur, Anantai, Lathi, Jagadalpur, Nimakhandi, Luchapada, Dura, Gaunju, Phulta, Satakhutuni, Bhabinipur, Haladiapadar and Bada Kusasthali Gram Panchayats.
The proposed expansion is intended to bring adjoining rural areas within the jurisdiction of the city’s civic body and facilitate planned development of a larger urban area surrounding Berhampur. The move is also expected to improve civic infrastructure and strengthen urban planning in the rapidly expanding city and its peripheral areas.
However, the latest correspondence with the Census authorities has added another layer to the process. Any decision regarding the merger may now depend on clarification over whether the proposed territorial changes could affect the preparation or conduct of Census 2027.
Berhampur has a long history of urban administration. The city’s municipal institution was established in 1867, making it the first municipal body in Odisha.
The city has also played a significant role in Odisha’s political history. Former President of India V. V. Giri began his political career as a councillor of the Berhampur Municipality.
With the Greater Berhampur proposal still awaiting further progress, residents and stakeholders are now looking for clarity on the timeline for completing the proposed expansion of the municipal corporation.