Patna: The high-pitched election campaigning in Patna came to an end on Tuesday evening, setting the stage for polling on Thursday across all 14 Assembly constituencies of the district. Voting will take place from 7 am to 6 pm at 5,565 polling booths, where 48,30,135 voters will decide the fate of 149 candidates in the fray.
According to the District Magistrate Dr. Thiyagarajan S.M., elaborate security arrangements have been made to ensure free and fair polling. Central paramilitary forces will be deployed at every polling booth and checkpoint. In addition, Bihar Police personnel will be stationed across the district.
“There will be a three-tier security system comprising sector, zonal, and super-zonal officers,” the DM said, adding that Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been deployed to respond promptly to any untoward incident.
Aerial and Riverine Surveillance
The DM stated that drones will monitor the Diara and Tal regions, while mounted police have been deployed in vulnerable zones. Boat operations in the Ganga River will also be closely monitored to prevent any disruption during voting.
The district administration has set up 32 checkpoints on border routes and deployed 61 surveillance teams to maintain vigilance. Central forces are conducting continuous patrols in sensitive areas such as Mokama, Barh, and adjoining Diara regions under senior officers’ supervision.
“Anyone attempting to disturb law and order will face strict action. Polling in Mokama and nearby areas will be held peacefully under tight security,” the DM assured.
2,099 Critical Booths Identified
Out of the total polling stations, 2,099 booths have been classified as critical. The district also has 541 all-women polling stations, 14 for differently-abled voters, 3 youth-managed booths, and 49 model polling stations. The Digha constituency has the highest number of women-managed booths, totaling 100.
Polling Personnel Dispatched
Polling personnel have been assigned at assembly-wise dispatch centers, and on Wednesday, they will head to their respective booths with EVMs, VVPATs, and other election materials. The administration has arranged drinking water facilities and sheds at polling stations to ensure voter comfort during the day-long voting process.
With all preparations in place and security on high alert, the district administration is confident of conducting peaceful and transparent polling across Patna on Thursday.
