No load shedding on counting day, assures South Kolkata DEO amid poll concerns

Amid rising political concerns ahead of vote counting in South Kolkata, the District Election Officer (DEO) has assured that there will be no disruption due to power outages. Speaking to reporters, Randhir Kumar, DEO of South Kolkata, addressed apprehensions around possible “load shedding” during the counting process, stating that extensive arrangements have already been put in place.

The remarks come in the backdrop of repeated warnings by Mamata Banerjee, who had urged party agents to remain vigilant at counting centres. Political tensions have been particularly high in constituencies like Bhabanipur, where a closely watched contest is underway, intensifying scrutiny over election-day arrangements. Responding to concerns, the DEO clarified that dedicated power connections have been secured and multiple layers of backup systems are in place. He stated that generators will automatically activate in case of any outage, ensuring uninterrupted counting operations. Officials emphasised that preventive steps have been taken to eliminate the possibility of power disruptions altogether.

Apart from addressing power concerns, the DEO also highlighted security and preparedness measures across constituencies such as Ballygunge, Rashbihari, and Kolkata Port. With over a thousand polling stations, including several marked as sensitive, authorities have deployed central forces and strengthened infrastructure to ensure a smooth and secure counting process.