As India is set to begin its seven-phase general elections on April 19, the nation is experiencing intense heat, with temperatures predicted to rise further according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). 

IMD Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra talked about the effects of extreme heat on various parts of India, especially central and western peninsular regions.

According to Mohapatra, above-normal temperatures can be seen in the plains part of the nation, while the western Himalayas, northeastern states and, north Odisha might experience normal to below-normal maximum temperatures. 

Various parts of the country might experience 10-20 days of heat waves instead of a normal of 4-8 days. Mohapatra also revealed that several states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, north Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, north Chhattisgarh and, Andhra Pradesh are more prone to the worst impact of heat waves this year. 

As per the IMD reports, Central South India might experience above-normal maximum temperatures during April. The northeastern states and western Himalayan region may also witness normal to below-normal maximum temperatures during this time.

Many experts believe that the temperature rise poses a significant issue for the Lok Sabha elections. Here are some major effects of extreme heat on the general elections:

  • Voter Comfort and Health: The extreme heat makes the voting process difficult and daunting for many voters in the country. It is a serious issue, especially for elder voters and those with special health issues. 
  • Infrastructure pressure: Intense heat also puts pressure on the infrastructure to provide more cooling equipment like fans, coolers, and air conditioners to ensure the comfort of the voters. 
  • Voter turnout: High temperatures and heat waves can prevent numerous voters from leaving their homes to go out and vote, especially when they have to stand in long lines in the heat. 

 

India's Earth Sciences Minister, Kiren Rijiju, discussed numerous precautions for the heat on April 1 to ensure good voter turnout, despite the intense heat during the general elections. 

Also Read: How to prevent heat-related illnesses during Indian summers: Ministry of Health

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