Hyderabad Sep 9 (IANS): Citizens, who often blame authorities for not addressing urban problems, will now get an opportunity to offer technological solution as Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is organizing a Hyderabad Urban Hackathon.

In what is claimed to be first such initiative in the country aimed at involving people in better urban planning, the civic body has invited citizens aged between 18 and 35 years to participate in the event.

The shortlisted participants will be allowed to take part in 36-hour pre-Hackathon event Sep 26-27 at the Indian School of Business (ISB), which has joined hands with the Telangana government, GHMC and Metropolis World Congress for the unique initiative.

The participants can come up with innovation in any of the 17 focus areas including public transportation, sanitation, roads, electricity, water supply, housing, parking management and women safety.

Microsoft is collaborating with Hyderabad Urban Hackathon by proving mentorship and technical support.

GHMC commissioner Somesh Kumar said with the theme of 'social innovation with digital technology', the event is being organized as part of 11th Metropolis World Congress to be held here from Oct 7 to 10.

The winners of pre-Hackathon will be part of final Hackathon to be held on Oct 6. The shortlisted entries will get audience with international delegates at the World Congress. The best five ideas will be awarded and will be given incubation opportunity by the Telangana government in association with ISB.

Those interested may register before 11.59 p.m. Sep 19 on http://www.isb.edu/metropolis2014/registration.

Telangana IT Minister K. Tarakarama Rao said the initiative was an opportunity for youngsters to come out their solution to improve the urban governance.

He also advised GHMC officials to make use of social media to reach out to people.