ECI Forms Task Force to Monitor Heat Conditions Before Each Phase of Poll
Commission Meets with IMD, NDMA, and MoHFW
The Director-General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed the Election Commission that there are no significant concerns regarding heat waves for Phase 2 of the General Elections, scheduled for the 26th of this month. The weather forecast for the 13 states and union territories voting in Phase 2 is normal. Given reports of above-normal temperatures and heat waves in certain parts of the country, the Commission met today with relevant agencies to evaluate the developing weather situation and discuss measures to mitigate risks from hot weather during the General Elections.
The meeting, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar and attended by Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, also included representatives from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and IMD.
Key decisions from the meeting include:
1. A task force with officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI), IMD, NDMA, and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will evaluate the impact of heat waves and humidity five days before each polling phase, looking for concerning developments and potential mitigation measures.
2. The Commission instructed MoHFW to direct state health authorities to prepare for and provide assistance in the event of heatwave conditions affecting election operations.
3. The Commission will conduct a separate review with State Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to ensure appropriate arrangements at polling stations, such as shade structures, drinking water, fans, and other necessary facilities, following its existing advisory dated March 16, 2024.
4. Information, education, and communication (IEC) activities will be conducted among the public to share precautionary measures for mitigating the impact of heat waves in polling station areas.
The Commission has closely monitored weather reports and will ensure the comfort and well-being of voters, polling personnel, security forces, candidates, and political party leaders.
Background:
Given the importance of the matter, the Commission previously issued an advisory on March 16, 2024, to all Chief Electoral Officers about the “Prevention of Heat Wave Impact” along with instructions on assured minimum facilities at polling stations for strict compliance.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and NDMA have also previously issued advisories and guidelines for mitigating the risks of heat wave-related issues. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed all states to prepare a state action plan as part of their public health advisories.
