The Election Commission received reassuring news from the Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) today, indicating that there are no significant heat wave concerns for Phase 2 of the General Elections scheduled for April 26. This update comes amidst reports of above-normal temperatures and heat waves in certain parts of the country, prompting the Commission to convene a meeting with concerned agencies to address potential risks.
Chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, the meeting included representatives from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), & the IMD. Together, they discussed measures to mitigate any adverse effects of hot weather conditions during the electoral process.
Several decisions were made during the meeting to ensure the safety and well-being of voters, polling personnel, security forces, candidates, and political party leaders:
- Establishment of a task force comprising officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI), IMD, NDMA, and MoHFW to monitor the impact of heat waves and humidity five days before each polling phase, and to implement mitigatory measures if necessary.
- Directive to MoHFW to issue necessary instructions to health authorities in states to prepare for and provide assistance in case of heat wave conditions affecting election operations.
- Conducting a separate review with State Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to ensure adequate arrangements at polling stations, including provisions for shade, drinking water, fans, and other essential facilities as per existing advisories.
- Implementation of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities to educate the public on precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of heat waves in polling station areas.
Background information reveals that the Election Commission had issued an advisory on March 16, 2024, to all Chief Electoral Officers regarding the prevention of heat wave impacts and the provision of assured minimum facilities at polling stations. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and NDMA had also issued advisory guidelines earlier, emphasizing the importance of mitigating heat wave-related risks.
As the General Elections proceed, the Election Commission remains vigilant, closely monitoring weather reports, and taking proactive measures to ensure the comfort and safety of all stakeholders involved in the electoral process.
