Power crisis in over 100 polling booths in Kolkata, Commission orders urgent fixes

A major concern has emerged ahead of the elections in Kolkata, with more than 100 polling booths reportedly lacking electricity. The issue has alarmed election authorities, especially as all booths are mandated to have webcasting facilities to ensure transparency during voting.

The Election Commission has directed District Election Officers to immediately address the situation and ensure power supply at all polling stations. Officials have stressed that uninterrupted electricity is crucial for webcasting arrangements, which play a key role in monitoring the voting process. In areas where direct connections are unavailable, authorities have been instructed to deploy generators as a backup. Sources indicate that a significant number of such booths are located in the Kolkata Port area, where over 50 polling stations reportedly lack electricity. The situation has also raised broader questions about infrastructure, as most polling booths are set up in schools, highlighting gaps in basic facilities like power, lighting, drinking water, and sanitation.

Officials have acknowledged the urgency of resolving these issues before polling dates, noting that proper lighting is essential, especially as booth rooms are often enclosed during voting. Alongside electricity, arrangements for water and toilets are also being reviewed, with strict instructions issued to ensure all facilities are in place ahead of the elections.