DMK chief asks EC to put up pandals to counter heat

Chennai, May 2 (UNI) As an intense heat wave is sweeping Tamil Nadu, DMK President M Karunanidhi today requested the Election Commission to put up pandals/shamianas outside polling booths for the benefit of voters on May 8--the polling day.

In a letter to chief Election Commissioner B B Tandon, the DMK Leader said the heat was bound to increase day by day and it would be of immense help to voters, particularly the aged, if protection was provided at booths, which did not have built in shelters.

He welcomed the Commission's instructions to provide ramps for the convenience of the physically impaired. 'Similarly, we request the EC to give instructions to the concerned to provide temporary shelter to save voters waiting in the queue from the oppressive heat, wherever necessary,' he said.

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