Pune polls: Pimpri-Chinchwad records 40.5 per cent at 3.30 pm as first half sees poor response

Voter participation improved as the day progressed, particularly after 3 pm. Representational Pic/File

Polling for the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections began peacefully at 7.30 am on Thursday, January 15, 2026. However, the first half of the day witnessed a weak voter response, with many citizens staying away from polling booths during the morning hours.

According to election officials, several residents chose to travel during the holiday, which affected voter participation. Heavy traffic congestion was reported in areas such as Somatane Phata, Bhosari and parts of Pune, making it difficult for some voters to reach polling centres.

IN PHOTOS | BMC Election 2026: Raj Thackeray casts vote with family in Dadar

4 weeks agoPHOTO GALLERY

By 11.30 am, PCMC recorded a voter turnout of 16.3 per cent, while PMC reported 14.92 per cent voting.

Follow BMC Election updates LIVE here

Turnout improves after afternoon

Voter participation improved as the day progressed, particularly after 3 pm. Long queues were seen outside several polling booths in Pimpri-Chinchwad during the afternoon hours.

By 3.30 pm, PCMC had registered a turnout of 40.5 per cent. Election officials said a steady flow of voters continued in many areas later in the day.

Appeal to voters

Civic authorities appealed to citizens to come out and vote in large numbers to strengthen the democratic process. Officials said all arrangements were in place to ensure smooth and peaceful polling across both civic bodies.

Polling continued without any major incidents, according to information received from election officials.

Follow Maharashtra local body elections LIVE updates here