Patna: Elaborate security and traffic arrangements have been put in place ahead of the counting of votes for the high-profile Bankipur assembly byelection, scheduled to begin at 8am on Monday at AN College in Patna.With the outcome expected to draw political attention beyond the constituency, the district administration and the Election Commission have completed preparations to ensure a smooth and peaceful counting process.The counting centre has been placed under a three-tier security cover comprising Central Armed Police Forces, Bihar Police personnel and magistrates. Entry into the premises will be restricted to authorised election officials, counting staff, contesting candidates and approved counting agents.CCTV cameras have been installed across the counting centre, while the strong room housing the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will remain under continuous surveillance until it is opened in the presence of candidates and their authorised representatives before counting begins. Round-wise results will be announced as per the Election Commission’s prescribed procedure.To facilitate the counting process, traffic restrictions will remain in place around AN College from 5am until the completion of counting. Fire brigade vehicles, ambulances, hearses, patient vehicles, vehicles engaged in judicial work, counting duty and pass-holder vehicles and other essential service vehicles have been exempted.Under the traffic plan, general vehicles will not be allowed on the stretch between Boring Road intersection and AN College, the road from Mohini More to Sahdeo Mahato Marg, and the approach from Pani Tanki More towards the counting centre.Commercial vehicles will also be restricted on Boring Road between Rajapur Pul and Hartali Chowk, as well as on routes from Patliputra roundabout towards AN College and Pani Tanki. The Shivpuri railway crossing to Durga Temple turn near AN College will also remain closed for general traffic.Special parking arrangements have been made for candidates, counting agents and media personnel. Counting agents arriving via Bailey Road will park vehicles along Atal Path behind AN College and walk to the venue. Those coming from Kurji More or Patliputra Golambar will park near Sahayog Hospital before proceeding on foot.Candidates approaching from Bailey Boring Road will be allowed up to Tapasya More, while those coming from the Patliputra side can travel only till Pani Tanki More before walking to the counting centre.
