Resident Welfare Associations demand basic facilities at polling booths amid soaring temperatures in Delhi

Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in Delhi are urging for essential heat-relief measures at polling booths on election day due to soaring temperatures and a red alert issued by the weather department.

Polling for Delhi’s seven Lok Sabha seats is scheduled for May 25.

East Delhi RWAs president, B S Vohra, said, “The capital is on red alert, and stepping out to vote in this heat poses significant health risks. The temperature has already reached 45 degrees Celsius. We are demanding basic arrangements like coolers, fans, cold drinking water, and medical support to prevent any mishaps.”

Sanjay Gupta, the RWA president of Model Town, added, “Most residents in our area are senior citizens. For them, voting in this heat will be challenging. We encourage people to vote in the morning but insist on necessary arrangements”.

A meeting is scheduled for May 23 to discuss further actions and ensure measures are in place for polling day.

Earlier this month, Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) P Krishnamurthy assured the public that adequate arrangements, including drinking water and shaded waiting areas with coolers, would be available at polling stations.

The Delhi CEO has directed officials to provide essential medical kits and other supplies at every polling station. “The IMD predicts an intense heatwave. We have met with stakeholders and taken certain initiatives. We must strengthen these arrangements at polling stations, including setting up coolers, fans, and cold drinking water facilities,” he said.

Additionally, 8,000 volunteers will provide pick-up and drop-off services for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, and 3,500 wheelchairs will be available at polling stations.

Delhi has experienced a steady rise in temperature recently, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting heatwave conditions in many parts of the city. The maximum temperature is forecasted to range between 44 to 47 degrees Celsius over the next seven days. (With inputs from PTI)