Preparations for the counting of votes in all five Assembly constituencies in Pathanamthitta have entered the final stage, with the second phase of training for officials engaged in vote counting scheduled to be held on May 4 at the District Collectorate.
Each constituency will have 14 tables for counting votes recorded in electronic voting machines. Every table will be staffed by a counting supervisor, counting assistant, and micro observer. For postal ballot counting, nine tables each will be arranged in Thiruvalla, Aranmula, Konni, and Adoor constituencies, while Ranni will have seven tables. Each of these tables will be overseen by a counting supervisor, micro observer, and two counting assistants.
Preparations are progressing under the supervision of District Collector S. Prem Krishnan. At a review meeting held on Wednesday, he directed assistant returning officers from all constituencies to reach the Collectorate by 5.30 a.m. on counting day to receive postal ballots. The strong room will be opened at 7 a.m. in the presence of observers, candidates, and their agents. Counting will begin at 8 a.m. sharp.
A separate counter will be arranged outside the centre for storing mobile phones. Except for those authorised by the State Election Commission, all individuals entering the hall must deposit their mobile phones at the counter and collect them later using tokens.
