Monday’s voting in Jharkhand’s 48 urban local bodies wrapped with 61.83% turnout by 5 PM, a solid showing driven by smaller towns. Saraikela Nagar Panchayat in Saraikela-Kharsawan district dominated at 75.35%, while Ranchi Municipal Corporation struggled at just 43.28%.
As per Election Commissioner Alka Tiwari, percentages may rise post-recount. Standouts: Dumka’s Basukinath (74.18%), Ranchi’s Bundu (74%), East Singhbhum’s Chakulia (72.90%). This pattern reveals higher zeal in panchayats versus corporations.
Municipal corporations varied: Giridih best at 60%, followed by Medininagar (57.41%), Deoghar (52.92%), Dhanbad (48%), Chas (49.76%), Hazaribagh (49.9%). Nagar Parishads saw Chatra at 68% peak, Sahibganj at 57.58% low, most near 60%.
Activity at 4,307 centers started early, accelerating post-noon. Progressive figures: 10.50% by 9 AM, 23.23% by 11 AM, 37.44% by 1 PM, 50.61% by 3 PM, 61.83% by close. For city elections, this turnout is heartening, urging strategies to boost mega-city involvement for future cycles.