Preparations for the upcoming local body elections are gaining momentum in Visakhapatnam, with political parties, sitting corporators and aspiring candidates arranging customised vehicles for their campaigns.

Vehicle designers and workshops in the region have begun receiving orders for different types of campaign vehicles. Srinivas of SV Engineering Works in Parawada, who has experience in designing election vehicles, said demand had increased over the past few weeks as candidates prepared for the expected election schedule.

 

The customised vehicles come in several designs to suit different campaign requirements. Some are pickup vans with open platforms that allow candidates and their teams to address people while travelling. Others feature open stages for public speeches, while enclosed campaign trucks can accommodate display facilities.

The vehicles can be fitted with LED screens, sound systems and generator sets, along with customised painting and campaign branding. According to the workshop, the cost generally ranges from ₹3.5 lakh to ₹7 lakh, depending on the base vehicle, structural modifications and equipment installed.

 

Meanwhile, prospective candidates are strengthening their local networks, reviewing development work carried out in their wards and identifying pending civic issues. Sitting corporators are expected to highlight completed projects while addressing concerns related to sanitation, drinking-water supply, roads and drainage.

The preparations reflect the growing activity ahead of the local body polls, although the final election schedule will depend on the official notification.