DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

The Haryana Chief Secretary, Mr. T.V.S.N Prasad, today reviewed the preparedness for the impending heatwaves of summer-2024 and the arrangements for the general Lok Sabha elections, along with the by-election to the Karnal assembly constituency, with the Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners of the state.

During the review meeting, Mr. Prasad also sought detailed information about preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha-2024 elections from them.

The Chief Secretary emphasized the necessity for adequate arrangements for drinking water at polling stations on the polling day, May 25.

It was disclosed during the meeting that enforcement agencies have meticulously documented a significant amount of seized goods, valued at a total of ?23.31 crore since March 1st, 2024. Notably, significant seizures include cash amounting to ?4.05 Crores, liquor valued at ?8.17 Crores, drugs totaling ?8.02 Crores, precious metals worth ?1.73 Crores, and freebies valued at ?1.33 Crores. Mr. Prasad directed the officers to maintain strict vigilance over such activities.

Additionally, it was informed that the first randomization of EVMs is scheduled for April 25, 2024, with the second randomization to be conducted after the arrival of General Observers.

The first randomization of Presiding and Alternate Presiding Officers will be completed by April 29, with their training concluding by May 11. The second randomization of Polling Parties will be conducted after the arrival of General Observers. A total of 219 auxiliary polling stations will be set up in the state.

Mr. Prasad stressed adherence to government advisories regarding the impending heatwaves. He assured the public of the government's readiness to mitigate the effects of heatwaves, instructing relevant departments to take proactive measures.

The Health Department has been tasked with ensuring adequate supplies of ORS packets, essential medicines, and ice packs at health centers and Anganwadis. Additionally, instructions have been given to designate wards/beds for heatwave emergencies, equipped with ACs and coolers where available.

DGP Mr. Shatrujeet Kapur, Principal Secretary and Chief Electoral Officer, Mr. Anurag Aggarwal, Principal Secretary Mr. Devendra Kalyan, and other senior officials attended the meeting. Divisional Commissioners, IGs, Deputy Commissioners, and Superintendents of Police from all districts also participated via video conference.


(editor@dailyworld.in)