This is IMD's weather forecast for Phase 2 Lok Sabha Poll-2024; ECI forms task force to watch heat conditions

DG IMD has informed Election Commission that there is no major concern with regard to heat wave for phase 2 of the Lok Sabha Election-2024 scheduled on 26th of this month. The weather forecast is normal for the 13 States/UTs going for polls in Phase 2. 

In view of reports of above normal temperatures and heat waves in certain parts of the country, the Commission held a meeting with concerned agencies to understand the developing weather situation and discuss measures to mitigate any risk due to hot weather conditions during the period of General Elections.

The meeting chaired by CEC Rajiv Kumar along with ECs Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu was attended by Additional Secretary Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Head of Department, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and DG Meteorology, India Meteorological Department (IMD). Several decisions were taken during the meeting.

Task force formed

A task force comprising officials from ECI, IMD, NDMA and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare will review the impact of heat wave and humidity, five days before each polling phase for any concerning developments and mitigatory measures, if necessary.

EC's direction to MoHFW

Commission directed MoHFW to issue necessary instructions to health authorities in states to prepare for and extend assistance in case of heatwave conditions affecting election operations.

EC will hold separate review with State CEOs

The Commission will hold a separate a review with State CEOs to ensure adequate arrangements at polling stations including shamiyana, drinking water, fans, and other assured minimum facilities, etc. as per its existing advisory dated March 16, 2024.

IEC (Information, Education and Communication) activities shall be carried out amongst the public for precautionary measures (Do’s & Don’ts) to mitigate the heat wave impact in polling station areas.

The Commission has been closely monitoring the weather reports and will make sure the comfort and well-being of voters along with polling personnel and security forces, candidates and political party leaders.