Local body polls: Counting of votes to begin at 8 am today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The counting of votes for the two-phase local body elections will begin today at 8 a.m. The first trend is expected by 8:30 am. Counting is likely to be almost complete by around 2 pm. There are 244 counting centres across the state. The progress of counting can be tracked on the Election Commission’s TREND website.

Postal ballots will be counted first, followed by votes from the voting machines.

Postal ballots for district panchayat seats will be counted at the respective district collectorates. State Election Commissioner A Shajahan has urged political parties and supporters to maintain restraint during victory celebrations. The model code of conduct will remain in force until December 18.

Loudspeakers cannot be used in a manner that blocks or disrupts traffic on public roads and junctions. Fireworks and crackers are allowed only as per legal guidelines. Green protocol, noise-control rules, and environmental regulations must be strictly followed during celebrations.