Patna: Counting of votes for the capital’s 14 Assembly constituencies has begun at 8 am today at AN College, where authorities have implemented strict security and wide-ranging traffic diversions. With EVMs set to be opened in the morning, heavy restrictions have been placed around the counting centre from 5 am onwards.
Emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire engines, and those involved in judicial duties, will be allowed access. All other vehicles will be barred from using routes leading to Boring Road through Patliputra, Rajapur Bridge, Shivpuri, and adjoining areas. Police have advised commuters to avoid the entire stretch around AN College throughout the day.
The counting centre has been secured through a three-tier security arrangement. The first layer is managed by Central Armed Police Forces, including one platoon of the CISF and two platoons of the CRPF. The second tier consists of one company of the Bihar Special Armed Police (BSAP), while the third tier includes 12 sections of the District Armed Police (DAP). In addition, three ASP/DSP-rank officers, 13 police officers, and 12 magistrates are on continuous duty to monitor the premises.
CCTV cameras have been installed across the campus, and entry of unauthorised persons is strictly prohibited.
Inside the counting halls, arrangements have been made to count 14 EVMs simultaneously across 14 tables, forming one round. Each round is expected to take 10 to 15 minutes. As counting progresses, early trends are likely to emerge around 9 am.
In Patna district, Mokama is expected to be the first Assembly constituency to declare its result, while Digha is likely to be the last. Authorities have urged political workers and supporters to maintain order as results begin to roll out through the day.
