Heatwave Threatens to Lower Voter Turnout in Four States Holding Elections on Friday

The higher temperatures have impacted the turnout in the first phase of polls, with a drop of 4.4 percentage points from the previous elections. In the second phase, 13 states and Union Territories are going to the polls. Concerns have been raised about the heatwave warning for parts of at least four states – West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.

Data from Bihar’s Nawada and Gaya Lok Sabha constituencies supports the hypothesis that higher temperatures, especially over 40 degrees Celsius, have an impact on voter turnout. With a forecast of a hot summer and an increase in the number of heatwave days, the Election Commission held a high-level meeting to assess the situation. Necessary facilities like awnings, drinking water, and fans at all polling stations are being evaluated.

Adequate arrangements for drinking water and shade are being made at every polling booth in Ghaziabad, which has seen low voter turnout in successive elections. According to the guidelines issued by the National Disaster Management Authority, people are advised to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes, cover their heads, and carry plenty of fluids. They are also encouraged to follow the daily forecast and advisories from the India Meteorological Department.