Islamabad UCs to get more wards

RAWALPINDI:

Islamabad's local governance system is likely to undergo a structural overhaul as relevant authorities plan to increase the number of wards in each union council from six to nine.

According to sources, the move is expected to necessitate fresh delimitation of constituencies, potentially delaying the city's local government elections.

Currently, Islamabad comprises 125 union councils, each consisting of six wards, amounting to a total of 750 wards across the federal capital. Sources said the proposed increase in wards will raise the total number to 1,125, expanding the number of general, labour, and women councillors.

The decision is being reviewed, with planning already in advanced stages.

If implemented, it will significantly alter the local administrative framework and representation dynamics.

However, the necessary reorganisation and delimitation may postpone the upcoming municipal elections.

The final decision is expected in January 2025, with the working process already underway. Officials have confirmed that planning for increasing ward block codes within union councils has been completed.

While the expansion aims to enhance representation and administrative efficiency, it may also complicate the election schedule and logistical planning for local governance. Observers are awaiting further clarity on how this change will impact Islamabad's political and administrative landscape.