Chennai, April 14 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at facilitating voter movement and minimizing confusion, polling places in all 16 Assembly constituencies in Chennai will be colour-coded for the upcoming elections.

This initiative is anticipated to greatly enhance navigation at large polling centers where multiple booths function within the same area.

District Election Officer J. Kumaragurubaran announced that the colour-coding system will be applied to polling locations that accommodate more than ten booths. “Signboards and well-marked coloured paths will direct voters straight to their assigned booths, aiding in reducing confusion and wait times,” he mentioned in a social media update.

Chennai hosts a considerable urban electorate, with 4,085 polling booths spread across 1,197 polling locations. Many of these venues, especially schools and public facilities, contain a large number of booths under one roof, often resulting in congestion and navigation difficulties for voters.

Under the new system, distinct colours will be allocated to specific booths within a location. For example, at the Nammalwarpet Chennai High School in Purasawalkam, paths have already been painted in hues like sky blue, pink, and pistachio green to guide voters to different sections.

These visual indicators will be complemented by strategically placed signboards within the premises. Officials emphasized that this initiative is particularly vital in areas with high voter density.

“In one school within the constituency, there are 16 polling booths catering to nearly 9,000 voters. Without adequate direction, managing such a crowd can be quite challenging,” a Chennai Corporation official elaborated.

Similar measures have been implemented in other constituencies. In a private school located in Perambur, authorities have constructed two separate entrances and a single exit to optimize voter flow. Maps have also been placed at strategic locations to help voters quickly find their booths.

The election body is also prioritizing inclusivity. Special provisions are being made for Persons with Disabilities, ensuring they have easy access and movement within polling stations.

Moreover, dedicated racks will be available at select locations for voters to securely store their mobile phones before entering the booths.

Officials noted that if this colour-coding initiative proves successful, it may be expanded to polling locations with more than five booths in the future, further enhancing voter convenience across the city.