BMC Election 2026 Vote Counting Commences Today Across Mumbai
Mumbai prepares for a crucial democratic exercise today as vote counting for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections begins. Municipal Commissioner and District Election Officer Bhushan Gagrani announced the counting will start at 10:00 am sharp. The process will unfold simultaneously across 23 designated counting centers spread throughout the city.
Strict Adherence to Election Commission Guidelines
The entire counting operation will follow the strict guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India. Officials will also enforce the Model Code of Conduct without any compromise. The BMC released a detailed statement on Thursday confirming the Municipal Commissioner has approved the comprehensive vote counting plan.
Elaborate arrangements ensure the process runs smoothly from start to finish. Authorities have deployed substantial security forces across Mumbai. They have also implemented specific traffic management plans and taken measures to maintain law and order throughout the city during this critical period.
Detailed Administrative Preparations
The BMC appointed 23 Returning Officers to oversee the 227 election wards within municipal limits. Each officer has designated strong rooms and counting venues under their jurisdiction. The Public Works Department and the Police Department have granted all necessary approvals for these locations.
Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani personally reviewed the counting arrangements on Thursday. He conducted the review alongside senior officials including Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Ashwini Joshi and Special Officer (Election) Vijay Balamwar. Other key participants were Deputy Commissioner Vishwas Shankarwar, Additional District Collector (Konkan Division) Farog Mukadam, Assistant Commissioner Gajanan Bellale, Deputy District Collector Mahadev Kirwale, and all 23 Returning Officers.
Transparency and Efficiency Measures
Gagrani stated that authorities have taken all necessary measures to guarantee a transparent and smooth counting process. They aim to complete everything within the stipulated time frame. Officials have finalized arrangements for the layout of counting centers, table planning, and staff deployment.
Additional safeguards include comprehensive CCTV surveillance systems at all counting venues. Fire safety protocols are in place, and medical facilities remain available on standby. The administration maintains close coordination with the Police Department to prevent any potential law-and-order issues during the counting.
Substantial Staff Deployment and Training
For today's counting exercise, the administration has deployed a total of 2,299 officers and staff members. This workforce includes 759 supervisors, 770 assistants, and 770 Class IV employees. According to the official statement, all counting personnel received prior training to handle their responsibilities effectively.
Logistical and Security Arrangements
Authorities have implemented specific traffic control measures and parking arrangements near all counting centers. They have also created separate enclosures for media personnel to facilitate coverage. A computerized system will tabulate and declare results, ensuring both accuracy and transparency in the outcome.
Entry into the counting premises remains strictly regulated. Only authorized candidates, their appointed representatives, and media personnel with valid identity cards issued by the Election Department will gain permission to enter. Officials urge all stakeholders to strictly adhere to instructions issued by the Maharashtra State Election Commission.
