With the seven-phase Lok Sabha poll occurring at the peak of the summer amid warnings of above normal temperature and heat wave conditions by the India Meteorological Department ( IMD), the Election Commission ( EC) issued an advisory to States and Union Territories and sought “strict compliance” of its directive of providing assured minimum facilities on the day of polls at polling stations for voters as well as polling personnel, including drinking water, shade and medical kit, ramp, polling states at ground floors, proper lighting and electricity, furniture’s and proper signages at polling stations.
The Commission has also shared with its state chief electoral officers a set of ‘dos and don’ts’ issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to minimise the impact of the impending heat wave.
The commission has cited IMD to note that there is a high probability of above normal temperatures during summer season, “which may translate into stronger and longer spells of heatwave especially during months of March to June, 2024”. The Meteorological Scientists have advised political parties to factor in the impacts of rising temperatures while campaigning outdoors and conducting big rallies.
The NDMA in its do’s and don’ts advised to avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m; Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty; Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in sun, avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high. Avoid working outside between 12 noon and 3 p.m.
The April 19 to June 1 polls are likely to witness an above-normal number of heatwave days in most parts of the country, barring a few pockets in the western Himalayas, north-east and peninsular India.
Traditionally, polls in India used to happen either in the winter or in the spring until 2004, when the then-prime minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, decided to dissolve the Lok Sabha eight months in advance and went to polls in April–May. Subsequently, four Lok Sabha polls were held amidst the heat and dust.
With the Indian subcontinent emerging as a “hotspot” of extreme heat waves owing to global warming, studies have documented the deaths of thousands due to extreme heat events. In cities, there is an additional contributor in the form of “urban heat island” effects.
In a letter sent out to its Chief Electoral Officers, the Commission reminded them about its earlier set of instructions on assured minimum facilities at polling stations. According to the June 2023 instructions on assured minimum facilities, which have been circulated afresh, during summer, every polling party shall be supplied with oral rehydration salts (ORS) for their own use as well as for any voter needing the same due to heat-stroke.
“A hand bill on ‘Dos and Don’ts’ in case of heat stroke may be prepared and supplied to each of the polling parties. An appeal to the electors may be issued to carry wet towels to protect themselves against dehydration and also advise women electors to avoid bringing children along with them to polling stations during hot weather conditions,” the instruction said.
