Dehradun: Voting for the first phase of Uttarakhand’s three-tier Panchayat elections began on Thursday amid challenging weather conditions, especially in the hilly districts of Nainital and Bageshwar.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for these regions, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning throughout the day.
Weather may impact voter turnout
The alert comes at a critical time as voters in remote and mountainous areas attempt to reach polling stations. Officials fear that the weather may impact voter turnout and logistical arrangements in several development blocks. Five rural roads in Nainital were already closed on Wednesday due to landslides and waterlogging, raising concerns about accessibility.
Nainital and Bageshwar are likely to receive intense spells of rain
According to the IMD’s Dehradun center, isolated places in Nainital and Bageshwar are likely to receive intense spells of rain accompanied by thunder and lightning. Similar conditions are expected in other hill districts including Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, and Uttarkashi. The department has advised residents and election officials to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel, especially near rivers and landslide-prone zones.
Dehradun saw intermittent showers turning into heavy rainfall by afternoon
In Dehradun, the sky remained overcast since morning on Wednesday, with intermittent showers turning into heavy rainfall by afternoon. The city witnessed waterlogging in several areas, including major intersections and low-lying colonies. Overflowing drains and rising river levels added to the chaos, although conditions normalized by evening.
Char Dham Yatra routes have also been affected
The Char Dham Yatra routes have also been affected, with reports of delays and disruptions due to slippery roads and poor visibility. Pilgrims and tourists have been advised to check weather updates before traveling and to avoid venturing into high-altitude zones during peak rainfall hours.
State election commission has deployed additional personnel and resources
Despite the weather challenges, polling began as scheduled in most districts. The Uttarakhand State Election Commission has deployed additional personnel and resources to ensure smooth conduct of the elections. Treasuries and sub-treasuries in polling areas remain closed, and paid public holidays have been declared to facilitate voter participation.
In Bageshwar, local authorities are monitoring vulnerable areas closely. JCB machines have been stationed in landslide-prone zones to clear debris if needed. Emergency response teams are on standby, and polling booths have been equipped with basic safety provisions.
On Wednesday, Dehradun saw a maximum temperature of 31.1°C
Temperature fluctuations have also been recorded across the state. On Wednesday, Dehradun saw a maximum temperature of 31.1°C and a minimum of 24.5°C. Pantnagar recorded 31.8°C and 27.4°C, while Mukteshwar remained cooler at 19.1°C and 15.7°C. Tehri’s temperatures hovered around 22.5°C and 17.6°C. For Thursday, Dehradun is expected to reach a high of 32°C and a low of 23°C.
Citizens to stay updated through official channels
The Meteorological Department has urged citizens to stay updated through official channels and avoid risky areas. People living in hilly districts have been specifically advised to avoid riverbanks and steep slopes, as sudden rainfall may trigger flash floods or landslides.
As the day progresses, election officials and weather monitors remain on high alert. The second phase of Panchayat elections is scheduled for July 28, and authorities are hoping for improved conditions to ensure safe and inclusive polling across the state.