The Election Commission has issued an advisory to Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all the States and Union Territories in view of heat wave. The advisory followed a forecast of above normal temperatures by Indian Meteorological Department during forthcoming summer season, which may translate into stronger and longer spells of heatwave especially during March to June this year. The Commission has shared a copy of Do’s and Don’ts issued by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) regarding minimization of heat wave impact. The NDMA has advised people to avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12 noon and 3 pm to minimise the impact during the heatwave. It has also advised to drink sufficient water and avoid stale food. The commission has asked CEOs to ensure minimum basic facilities including drinking water and shade at the polling stations.
A report says that Election Commission has directed that every polling party should be supplied with Oral Rehydration Salts, ORS for their own use as well as for any voter needing ORS due to heatstroke. There should preferably be a permanent arrangement of a tap facility for drinking water.
As an alternative, drinking water pots having sufficient capacity on the day of poll may be provided. There should be proper provision for furniture like tables, chairs and benches inside polling stations. There should also be separate toilets in sufficient numbers for male and female voters. A tented arrangement for shade with an adequate size canopy should be made available as a waiting area. It must be ensured that a sufficient number of medical kits along with a village level health worker are available for emergency use of voters and polling staff.
