Karnataka: Kanakapura’s forest-themed polling booth set up to promote voter engagement, environmental awareness

A unique polling booth with a forest theme has been set up at the Kanakpura polling station to attract voters during the second phase of the Lok Sabha election 2024. The initiative by the Kanakapura Forest Department aims to engage voters and raise awareness about forest conservation.

Named ‘Adavi’ (meaning forest), the special polling station at GTTC Polling Station No-79 in Kanakapura immerses voters in a natural ambiance. The booth has been transformed into a serene forest setting, complete with indigenous flora and thematic decorations.

“We have set up this booth on the theme of the forest here in Kanakapura as climate change is a big issue… we need to create awareness among voters to save forests and water,” said Kanakapura Municipality Commissioner Mahadev Swamy.

The booth features a ‘chappar,’ a special flower native to the forest, at the entrance, along with decorative door hangings and strategically placed plants to enhance the forest-like atmosphere. The Forest Department is also distributing saplings to voters as part of an awareness program.

The initiative aims to educate voters about the importance of forest conservation through engaging displays and informational materials. It also fosters a sense of environmental responsibility among voters.

Speaking about the initiative, a representative from the Kanakapura Forest Department highlighted the importance of innovative approaches to civic engagement. “By blending nature with democracy, we hope to inspire citizens to become advocates for environmental conservation while exercising their democratic rights,” they remarked.

The establishment of the Adavi polling station underscores the commitment of the Kanakapura Forest Department to promote sustainable practices and community involvement. As voters visit this unique polling station, it serves as a testament to the power of creativity in fostering civic participation and environmental consciousness.