As temperatures in Chandigarh continue to soar, political parties and candidates contesting the Municipal Corporation (MC) elections have adjusted their campaign schedules to avoid the scorching heat. Canvassing activities, which previously took place throughout the day, are now concentrated during the cooler hours of early morning and late evening.
Shift in Campaign Strategy
The decision to shift campaign timings comes as a response to the extreme weather conditions, with daytime temperatures consistently exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Candidates and their supporters are now seen reaching out to voters between 6 AM and 10 AM, and again after 6 PM, when the heat is less intense.
Impact on Voter Outreach
This change has affected the traditional door-to-door campaigning methods. Party workers are covering fewer households per day but are spending more time with each voter during the cooler periods. Some candidates have also started organizing small indoor meetings and using social media platforms to connect with voters without exposing them to the heat.
Health Concerns have been a major factor in this shift. Several campaign workers reported cases of heat exhaustion and dehydration during the initial days of canvassing in the peak afternoon hours. Health officials have advised all campaigners to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
Voter Response
Residents have welcomed the change, as many were reluctant to open their doors or stop for conversations during the hottest part of the day. Elderly voters, in particular, appreciate the early morning visits when they are more active and comfortable.
One resident commented, "It's much better now. Earlier, we couldn't talk to anyone in the afternoon because of the heat. Now, we can discuss issues properly in the morning or evening."
Logistical Adjustments
Political parties have made logistical adjustments to support the new schedule. Campaign vehicles are now equipped with water coolers and umbrellas, and volunteers are provided with hats and sunscreen. The election commission has also extended the permission for public meetings and rallies to start earlier and end later, within the designated noise-free hours.
The MC polls are scheduled for next month, and all major parties are in the final phase of their campaigns. The shift to cooler hours is expected to continue until the weather improves.
