Mumbai: The stage is set for the battle of pride as Maharashtra gears up for perhaps one of the most watched elections in electoral history. The 288-seat assembly will go to polls on November 20 and voters will choose if the state will be led by Mahayuti alliance (BJP, NCP and Shiv Sena) or the Maha Vikas Aghadi (Congress, AAP, SP, NCP-Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Sena).
The results will be declared on November 23 (Saturday). Cities like Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur among others will also see expansive arrangements in view of the polls. To make the entire process seamless, ECI and authorities have instructed the closure of certain work.
Mumbai Voting Time Details
Here's what will be closed and what will remain open on polling day (Nov 20):
Here’s a list of what’s open and closed on polling day:
Banks and Financial Institutions
As per the orders, all banks across Mumbai, Pune and Maharashtra will remain closed on November 20. However, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), digital banking services like ATMs, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) platforms, and online banking services will remain functional to ensure uninterrupted transactions.
Schools and Colleges
All educational institutions – schools, colleges and others will remain closed so that eligible students and staffers can exercise their franchise, to record maximum participation.
Government and Private Offices
The government offices across the state of Maharashtra have been asked to remain closed on the day of polling. In addition to this, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has also the day eligible for mandatory paid leave for private-sector employees in Mumbai. The step has been taken to encourage voter turnout.
Those working as emergency workers like doctors, fire officials or police personnel – will receive a four-hour window to cast their votes.
READ MORE | Pune Voting Time Details
Alcohol Shops
Polling day is usually a dry day and it is done to ensure public order. The liquor shops across Mumbai and the state will be closed on polling day till 6 PM.
Stock Market
In view of the polling, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) are observing a holiday to ensure that workers cast their votes. This means, no trading will take place on November 20.
Buses, Local and Metro
The public transport services in Mumbai, Pune and the entire state will not be affected with the electoral process as the people will get a window to cast their vote. In Mumbai, the Metro, local trains, and BEST buses will run as per their usual schedule.
Moreover, the services have been extended until midnight to facilitate easy access to polling stations for voters.
Hospitals
Since hospitals come under emergency services, pharmacies and emergency medical services will remain open for patients.