HYDERABAD: The first phase of the ongoing census within the Outer Ring Road (ORR) limits has recorded a population higher than official estimates, raising the possibility that Hyderabad's population could touch 1.5 crore once the survey is completed.

The government had estimated a population of 1.34 crore based on 2010 population figures and voter data. However, preliminary findings indicate that nearly 1.3 crore people have already been counted in about 90 per cent of surveyed households.

Locked houses to undergo fresh survey

Chief Census Officer RV Karnan directed officials to revisit locked houses before the survey deadline of June 9. Data up to June 3 show that 5.42 per cent of houses remained locked during the initial visit.

Officials said many families leave for work during the day and return late at night. Enumerators have been instructed to revisit such houses, including during early mornings and evenings, to ensure every household is covered.

Survey reaches over 41 lakh houses

The first phase of the census began on May 11. Authorities divided the city up to the ORR limits into 300 divisions and nearly 20,000 house-listing blocks for the door-to-door exercise.

Enumerators have so far visited around 41 lakh houses. Another 10 per cent of households remain to be surveyed. Officials estimate that the total number of houses could reach 45 lakh and the population may touch 1.5 crore after full coverage.

Officials clarified that the first phase records household details and avoids duplication. The final population figure will emerge during the second phase of the census scheduled for 2027.