From pedestrian-friendly roads to good air quality, young voters share their vision for their beloved city with mid-day
While many youngsters were thrilled to cast their vote, not all had a great experience. PIC/SATEJ SHINDE
For young voters, development goes beyond grand infrastructure projects and flashy promises. Issues such as pedestrian-friendly roads, reliable public transportation, safe public spaces, and clean air are among their top concerns.
Speaking with mid-day, first-time and young voters across the city highlighted everyday challenges — ranging from broken footpaths and unsafe crossings to rising pollution levels — that directly affect their quality of life. Their voices reflect a growing demand for practical, people-centric governance that prioritises health, safety, and sustainability.
However, while many were thrilled to cast their vote, not all had a great experience. Rudra Dhokale, 21, a blind student who made his way from Mulund to Mankhurd to vote, couldn’t vote initially as he was carrying documents in digital form. When he returned with a physical Aadhaar card, he had to ask a stranger for help as no Braille sheet was provided.
‘Better roads, transport, and air, women’s safety...’
Kiran Padwal, 23 (S ward)
There should be better roads and transport, and transparency about the work being carried out. Proper aid should be provided to the poor, and to those who suffer due to natural calamities. Air quality should also improve… I expect stricter action against construction sites that do not follow rules. Safety for women should be ensured. Also, there should be strict fines for people who litter and engage in such irresponsible behaviour.
Nandini Keluskar, 21 (S ward)
I voted for the first time despite being eligible to vote in the 2022 elections had they been held. I believe that basic sanitation facilities should not be something that we need to ask for. But still, this is one of the biggest demands as a young female voter.
Rudra Dhokale, 21 (M East ward)
I had documents on Digilocker and did not carry physical copies. I was told I cannot vote with digital documents, so had to turn back. I then got an Aadhar smart card made and returned to Ward No. 135 in Mankhurd. I repeatedly asked for a Braille sheet, but they couldn’t provide one. I had to ask a stranger for the serial number of my preferred party and cast my vote. My first experience was full of hiccups with volunteers not being proactive. But I I did my duty.
Hussaina Ujjainwala, 21, (D ward)
I could have voted in 2022. But as elections were not conducted then, this is my first experience. My basic expectations as a young voter are better roads, a pedestrian-friendly city, safer pavements and accountability for bikers riding on footpaths.
Akash Vishwakarma,24 (K East ward)
It was a very proud moment for me when I entered the polling booth and voted for the first time to see democracy in action. It was an honour to participate in the democratic process.
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