Logistical Preparations Intensify for Assam Assembly Elections
Massive Bus Deployment for Election Operations
File image of Buses lined up (AT Photo)
Guwahati, April 8: In a significant logistical effort ahead of the Assam Legislative Assembly elections set for April 9, more than 2000 buses have been transported from West Bengal and Bihar to facilitate election activities throughout the State.
A senior official from the Transport Department indicated that these buses will be utilized to transport polling staff, security personnel, and election materials to various constituencies.
Approximately 1500 to 1600 buses have been sourced from eight districts in West Bengal, including Siliguri, while around 800 buses have arrived from 20 districts in Bihar, according to the official.
The official emphasized that such extensive transportation arrangements are vital for ensuring the prompt movement of personnel and resources, which is essential for conducting fair and transparent elections.
Additionally, smaller vehicles from other states have been dispatched to border districts.
In an interview, a driver and a conductor shared their experiences regarding the demanding travel conditions and tight schedules. “We departed from Siliguri at 10 am on Sunday and traveled until 8 pm the following day. We spent the night on the bus and continued our journey to Hamren in West Karbi Anglong this morning. It’s tiring, but we recognize the significance of our duty,” stated Ahmed Matlub, the bus conductor.
“Having worked in this profession for nearly two decades, this is our first time traveling to another state for election duty,” he added.
Five buses owned by their employer were sent to Assam, with each bus earning Rs 75,000.
The bus driver, Kartik, remarked, “We adapt along the way and strive to keep operations running smoothly. Participating in election duty instills a sense of responsibility in us.”
This year, a total of 1,88,915 presiding officers and 2,524 micro observers have been appointed for the elections, along with the deployment of 800 companies of paramilitary forces for election duties.
Long lines of buses have been observed entering Guwahati and other regions of the State since Tuesday morning.