Vellore Corporation is a civic body that governs the city of Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India. Vellore corporation consist of 60 wards and is headed by a mayor who presides over a deputy mayor and 60 councillors who represent each wards in the city.[1]
The current mayor of Vellore is Sujatha Anandakumar of the DMK, which also holds a majority in the corporation.
Demographics
As per the 2011 census results, Vellore UA has a population of above 8 lakhs. City Population grew from 423,425 in 2001 to 502,000 in 2011.
Vellore City consists of Sathuvachari, Vallalar, Dharapadavedu, Shenbakkam, Allapuram, Fort, Kaspa, Vasanthapuram, Thiyagarajapuram, Thottapalayam, Saidapet, Thorapadi, Hazrath makkan, Otteri, Velapadi, Salavanpet, Rangapuram, Bagayam, Kazhinjur, Gandhi Nagar, Katpadi, Palavansaathu, Virupakshipuram, Konavattam, Viruthampattu, Kangeyanallur, Idaynsaathu, Sripuram, Alamelumangapuram(A.M.Puram) and Chitheri.
Total area spans across 20 km approximately. Total area is 153.14 km² according to the G.O.(Rt).No. 221 Dated 28.09.2010 issued by Tamil Nadu government. The population of Vellore Corporation based on that GO as of 2001 was 423,425.[2] Vellore City Municipal Corporation is divided into four zones namely Vellore Fort, Sathuvachari, Shenbakkam and Katpadi.
According to 2011 census Vellore agglomeration population is 481,966. In 2011 Census Data they have missed out three places. The census bureau has listed the city population as UA population. Actual population of Vellore including the missed out places, will be 502,000 and the population of Vellore UA will be more than 7.5 Lakhs.
History
Vellore town was constituted as a third-grade municipality in 1866, promoted to first – grade during 1947, further moved to Selection – Grade from 1997. Due to the increasing population and income it was declared as Special Grade Municipality w.e.f. 01.01.1979 and became Municipal Corporation from 1 August 2008. Vellore City Municipal Corporation has 60 wards and there will be an elected councilor for each wards respectively
The Greater Vellore City Municipal Corporation (GVCMC) is a proposed civic body aiming to merge key municipalities and town panchayats, including Vellore, Ranipet, Arcot, Walajahpet, and Melvisharam, to form a unified metropolitan administrative structure. This initiative envisions creating a larger, more resourceful urban entity to support the region's rapid development and strategic potential.
Geographical and Strategic Importance
Greater Vellore’s proposed jurisdiction places it at the crossroads of major economic and transport corridors. Located within a 2-3 hour drive from key metropolitan cities like Chennai and Bengaluru, as well as spiritual destinations like Tirupati and Tiruvannamalai, it holds a unique advantage in terms of connectivity and growth potential.
The zone benefits from its position along National Highways and rail routes, enhancing accessibility for industries, businesses, and residents. The area from Walajah Tollgate to Vellore Melmanvoor has already witnessed significant industrial expansion, with companies establishing their presence to capitalize on the region's logistics and workforce advantages.
Economic Potential
The GVCMC region has emerged as a prominent hub for industries, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. The presence of world-renowned institutions like Christian Medical College (CMC) and Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) further strengthens its reputation as a center of excellence.
Ranipet, already recognized as a major industrial zone, is one of the largest exporters of leather and allied products in the country. Integrating these municipalities under a single administrative unit is expected to streamline governance, foster economic synergy, and attract significant investments.
Urban Development Goals
The Greater Vellore proposal aims to achieve the following:
1. Streamlined Governance: Efficient administration through the consolidation of municipalities and town panchayats into a single corporation.
2. Infrastructure Development: Unified planning and investment in public amenities, roads, water supply, and waste management.
3. Boost to Urban Economy: Creating a competitive industrial and business-friendly environment to attract investors.
4. Enhanced Livability: Improving access to healthcare, education, public transport, and housing.
Future Prospects
The establishment of the Greater Vellore City Municipal Corporation is anticipated to propel the region into the league of emerging cities in India. With its proximity to two metropolitan cities, spiritual tourism hubs, and burgeoning industrial zones, Vellore is poised to become a key player in India's urban and economic development.
Conclusion
As industries and companies continue to invest in the Vellore Zone, this proposal underscores the region's transformation into a thriving urban center. The creation of the Greater Vellore City Municipal Corporation will not only enhance regional growth but also position it as a leading city on India's urban map.