Final Turnout Below 2021 Polls

The GVMC elections in Visakhapatnam recorded a voter turnout of 56.32%, according to the final figures reported after polling on November 1. The turnout was lower than the 59.41% recorded in the 2021 GVMC elections.

The participation level was also below the turnout recorded across several Visakhapatnam Assembly constituencies during the 2024 general elections.

Peripheral Zones Lead

Polling figures varied considerably across GVMC zones. Bheemili recorded the highest turnout at 66.27%, followed by Anakapalli at 65.6%, Aganampudi at 62.08% and Gajuwaka at 60.9%.

The West zone recorded 58.97%, while Pendurthi and Madhurawada registered 55.12% and 55.07%, respectively.

Core Urban Areas Lag

The East and South zones recorded turnout of 54.21% and 52.61%, respectively. The North zone registered the lowest participation at 49.71%.

The lower turnout in core urban areas followed a pattern also observed during the 2024 Assembly elections, when the central city constituencies recorded comparatively weaker voter participation.

Factors Behind the Subdued Response

Observers cited several possible factors behind the turnout, including low-key campaigning in some wards, delayed candidate finalisation and manifesto releases, and limited voter outreach.

Cyclone Arnab also disrupted normal life and campaigning during the final days before polling. The city’s growing migrant population and weaker engagement with local civic issues were also mentioned as possible contributing factors.

Political Parties Assess the Outcome

The subdued turnout has left the major political parties analysing its possible implications for the mayoral contest and corporator results. The final outcome will be known after the counting of votes.