Visakhapatnam District Collector and District Election Officer M. Abhisikth Kishore has directed officials to expedite preparations for the 2026 Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) elections and complete all pending arrangements without delay.

The Collector inspected the election material distribution centre and strong rooms at Government Polytechnic College in the North Zone. He also visited polling stations at Jnana Niketan School in BHEL Township and Zilla Parishad High School in Gajuwaka.

During the inspections, officials were instructed to ensure adequate facilities at election material distribution centres, including reception arrangements, public address systems, food supplies, transportation and accommodation for polling personnel. Clear signage should also be provided to help voters identify their polling stations.

At Jnana Niketan School, the Collector directed officials to install barricades to prevent overcrowding and immediately remove construction and demolition waste from the premises. During his visit to Gajuwaka, he expressed dissatisfaction over incomplete arrangements and instructed the concerned departments to finish the remaining work promptly.

The Collector also stressed coordination between election officials and the police to prevent disruptions and ensure peaceful polling. Officials from the revenue, engineering and police departments accompanied him during the inspections.

The directions come as the district administration steps up preparations for the GVMC elections. According to earlier reports, polling is scheduled for October 28, 2026, with counting scheduled for October 30.