In Andhra Pradesh, amidst tight security, polling for the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation is progressing peacefully. Polling began at 7 AM on a low key and it picked up momentum slowly by afternoon. About 30 % polling has been registered by 1PM. About 57 lakh voters are exercising their franchise in about 6,000 polling stations in 150 divisions of the Municipality.<br/><br/>AIR correspondent M.S. Lakshmi reports from Hyderabad that the Greater Hyderabad Municipal election has several reasons to be significant. This election has become crucial for all political parties in the state not only because it is being held for the first time after the formation of the Greater Hyderabad Municipality but also due to the fact that it is being held just 6 months after the general elections in April this year. For the first time the State Election Commission is using Electronic Voting Machines in these municipal elections. Micro observers have been appointed to see the polling is held in free and fare atmosphere. The poll process is being video graphed in about 1600 sensitive polling stations to avoid malpractices. While the ruling Congress party is contesting in all 150 divisions, the opposition Telugu Desam has fielded candidates in 141 division, BJP in 137, Praja Rajyam 64, Left parties 48, Loksatta 126 MIM 70. All together 1310 candidates are in the fray.<br/><br/>