HYDERABAD

Amid tight security arrangements, the polling for the election to the urban local bodies (ULBs), covering 113 municipalities and seven municipal corporations, is progressing smoothly across Telangana on Wednesday, with only a few sporadic incidents reported, including allegations of cash distribution, minor clashes and EVM glitches.

Polling, which began at 7 a.m., picked up momentum through the day. By 11 a.m., turnout stood at around 29%, rising sharply to 62.09% by 3 p.m., according to official data.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy cast his vote at the ZP Boys’ High School in Kodangal in Vikarabad district, his home constituency, before returning to Hyderabad and proceeding to New Delhi. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka exercised his franchise at Ward 9 in Madhira, Khammam district.

Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar voted along with his family at Nava Bharath Public School in Ward 3 of Husnabad Municipality, Siddipet district. Karimnagar MP and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar cast his vote in Karimnagar. Counting of votes is scheduled on February 13.

A flex was set up to create awareness about waste management at the Green Polling Station in Wardhannapet in Warangal district on Wednesday

Sporadic EVM glitches were reported in a few locations, causing brief delays. Additionally, some violations of the model code of conduct (MCC) including allegations of cash-for-votes were recorded.

State Election Commissioner I. Rani Kumudini expressed optimism about a robust turnout and appealed to voters to come out in greater numbers. Municipal Administration Secretary T.K. Sridevi noted that while urban areas traditionally show lower participation, several municipalities reported impressive turnout due to heightened voter awareness campaigns.

Voters pose for a photo at a selfie point set up at a Green Polling Station in Narsampet in Warangal district.

Green polling stations promote environmental awareness

In an effort to combine civic participation with environmental consciousness, Green Polling Stations and special eco-friendly booths were set up at multiple locations. These stations highlighted themes such as plastic recycling, solid waste management, and sanitation, aiming to create awareness about sustainability while encouraging citizens to exercise their democratic rights.