Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The national capital is all set to vote on Saturday (May 25) in the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, for which over one lakh polling personnel have been deployed for the smooth conduct of polling, Delhi Chief Electoral Officer P Krishnamurthy has said. Amid scorching heatwave conditions prevailing in north India, several steps have been taken to protect people from extreme weather. As many as 70 pink polling stations across Delhi, one in each assembly constituency, have been set up which will be entirely operated by women polling staff, as part of special initiatives to enhance the voting experience, according to a statement.
Additionally, 70 model polling stations will feature enhanced facilities. For the first time, each parliamentary constituency will have a polling station fully staffed by persons with disabilities (PwD), he added.
"We have meticulously planned and executed all aspects of election management, including manpower, logistics and transport management," he said.
Preparations to ease high temperatures for voters
The official said that comprehensive measures have been implemented to address the expected high temperatures of 44 to 45 degrees Celsius, which are based on the directives from the Election Commission and the IMD forecast of an intense heat wave.
"Our preparations are complete. Shaded areas will be established at all polling stations, with fully covered waiting zones equipped with coolers and fans to ensure voter comfort. We have ensured the availability of drinking water, toilets, ramps, and wheelchairs at every polling station under the Assured Minimum Facility Policy so that no voter faces any inconvenience," he said.
Swiggy, Zomato coupons for voters
The paramedical staff equipped with basic medical kits will be stationed at all polling locations, he added.
To further encourage voter turnout, the office of chief electoral officer has partnered with Rapido bike taxi to offer free rides home after voting. Voters will also receive special coupons from Zomato and Swiggy online food ordering and delivery platforms, and various restaurants will provide discounts upon showing voting ink, the statement said.
All 7 seats in Delhi will go to polls on Saturday. The results of the elections will be out on June 4.
(With PTI inputs)
