New Delhi [India], May 23 : The Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi, P Krishnamurthy, on Thursday said that they have completed preparations for the upcoming voting day on May 25 for the Lok Sabha elections 2024.
Krishnamurthy said, "We are setting up 70 pink polling stations across Delhi, one in each assembly constituency, which will be entirely operated by women polling staff. 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)."
To further encourage voter turnout, the Chief Electoral Office has partnered with Rapido to offer free rides home after voting. Voters will also receive special coupons from Zomato and Swiggy, and various restaurants will provide discounts upon showing voting ink.
"Chief Electoral Officer P Krishnamurthy detailed the extensive arrangements made to ensure a smooth and efficient electoral process, highlighting the deployment of over 1 lakh polling personnel and the steps taken to protect people from the intense heat wave," as per a press release from the Delhi Office of the Chief Electoral Officer.
"This is a significant day, and we have made thorough preparations," stated P Krishnamurthy.
"We have meticulously planned and executed all aspects of election management, including manpower, logistics, and transport management."
Krishnamurthy further emphasised that, based on the directives from the Election Commission and the IMD forecast of an intense heat wave, comprehensive measures have been implemented to address the expected high temperatures of 44-45 degrees Celsius.
"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. Additionally, paramedical staff equipped with basic medical kits will be stationed at all polling locations," Krishnamurthy said.
"Chief Electoral Officer P Krishnamurthy urges all Delhi residents to participate enthusiastically in the voting process on May 25," the release stated.
Delhi is undergoing voting in a single phase on all seven Lok Sabha seats on May 25, with a fierce contest between the BJP and the INDIA bloc, comprising the AAP and Congress. The counting of votes and declaration of results will be done on June 4.
The Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress are fighting the elections in alliance in the national capital, with the AAP contesting four and the Congress three seats.
The seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi are Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi, and West Delhi.