In a significant move towards digital governance, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has officially launched a fully online system for issuing survey certificates. This new initiative allows residents to apply for and obtain survey certificates for buildings and vacant plots within the city limits entirely through the civic body's official website, eliminating the need for tedious in-person visits.
End of Manual Hassles, Start of Digital Convenience
Previously, the process of acquiring a survey certificate was a manual ordeal. Applicants had to spend considerable time and physically visit multiple offices, navigating through bureaucratic layers. The new online portal is designed to streamline this process, making it significantly easier and faster for the public. Mayor P Srinivasa Rao emphasized that since survey certificates are a mandatory requirement for properties within the city, this innovative system was introduced specifically for public convenience.
GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg provided key operational details. He assured that the new system will enable residents to obtain their certificates within seven days, without the need to visit the GVMC head office or any zonal offices. A major feature is the ability for applicants to track the status of their application online at any stage during this process. Furthermore, the online processing will also extend to survey applications concerning urban land ceiling and government lands within GVMC limits, which will be handled via the mandal revenue office's online system.
How to Apply for Your Survey Certificate Online
The process for citizens is straightforward and self-service oriented. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, citizens need to visit the official GVMC website. They must log in using their credentials or register as a new user to access the service.
After logging in at www.gvmc.gov.in, navigate to 'Citizen Services', then select 'E-Request', and finally click on 'Surveyor Certificate'.
The applicant must then fill in the online form with all required personal and property details. The next crucial step is to upload the necessary supporting documents as specified.
Once submitted, the system generates a unique reference number. This number is essential for tracking the application status throughout its lifecycle.
Backend Process and Staff Training
Upon submission, the application is automatically routed to the relevant town surveyor based on the selected zone. The town surveyor is responsible for verifying all submitted details and documents and completing the necessary ground procedures.
After the town surveyor's approval, the application moves to the estate officer for a final review. Once fully approved, the digital survey certificate is generated and made available in the 'Issued Surveyor Certificate' section of the portal, where the applicant can view and download it directly.
To ensure the system operates smoothly and efficiently, Commissioner Garg stated that senior officials have been instructed to provide special training to revenue and town planning staff, as well as ward secretariat employees. This training aims to facilitate the speedy online issuance of survey certificates and a seamless experience for citizens.
This digital transformation by GVMC marks a major step in improving citizen-centric services in Visakhapatnam, aligning with broader e-governance goals and saving valuable time and effort for property owners across the city.
