The stage is set for a transformative BMC election, but a tepid voter response has sparked concern among leaders. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led the charge today, imploring Mumbaikars to flock to the polls and decide the financial capital’s civic destiny.
Polling began at 7 AM across 10,000-plus booths, yet initial figures paint a worrying picture: barely 12% turnout in south Mumbai by midday. Urban professionals cited work pressures and traffic woes as deterrents, while sporadic showers added to the reluctance.
In a video message, Fadnavis highlighted BMC’s pivotal role: ‘From pothole-free roads to cleaner beaches, your vote shapes Mumbai’s progress. Every citizen must participate.’ His words come at a time when the corporation commands a Rs 60,000 crore budget, influencing everything from public health to urban planning.
Rival camps are in overdrive. Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction accused rivals of ‘match-fixing’ voter lists, while Eknath Shinde’s group promised ‘double governance speed.’ BJP, allied with Shinde, eyes a majority to consolidate power.
Flashback to 2017: BMC polls saw 55% turnout, dominated by BJP-Shiv Sena ties. This time, fragmentation—with 95+ parties contesting—could fragment votes. Observers note higher enthusiasm in suburbs like Mulund and Ghatkopar, where local issues like water scarcity dominate.
Election Commission teams are deploying shuttle services and webcasting 50% booths for transparency. ‘We expect a pickup post-lunch,’ said Chief Electoral Officer S Chockalingam.
Fadnavis’s intervention underscores the stakes. As Mumbai votes for its 227 corporators, the outcome will ripple through Maharashtra politics. Will the city heed the call? The afternoon holds the answer.