The Election Commission of India convened a high-level meeting on Monday to discuss measures aimed at protecting voters from predicted heatwaves, expected to intensify over the next two months during the remaining six phases of the Lok Sabha polls.

Chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, the meeting involved key stakeholders such as officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), National Disaster Management Authority, and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology at IMD, said that the weather agency has been consistently providing updates to the ECI regarding the weather conditions in parliamentary constituencies prone to extreme heat.

“We are providing the ECI with inputs and forecasts about the places where elections are going to be held in different phases,” Mohapatra said.
“Along with seasonal forecasts, we are doing monthly, week-wise and everyday forecasts and giving them (ECI) forecasts about heatwaves, and humidity levels.”

According to the IMD, above-normal maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country, especially over central India and western peninsular India during this period.

“Elevated temperatures pose significant risks, especially for vulnerable populations…Prolonged periods of extreme heat can lead to dehydration and strain infrastructure. Proactive measures like providing access to cooling centers, issuing heat advisories, and implementing strategies to alleviate urban heat island effects are needed, ” Mohapatra said.

The first phase of the Lok Sabha elections concluded on Friday with a 60 percent voter turnout across 21 states and Union territories. The remaining phases are scheduled for April 26, May 7, 13, 20, 25 and June 1.

(With ANI input)