Voting commenced peacefully this morning at various polling stations across Dhaka, yet early reports indicate a notably low voter turnout. BBC correspondents visiting several centres observed that, while the voting process was orderly and well-managed, the number of voters present fell short of expectations.
The stations inspected included:
Dhaka City College
Rajdhani High School
Lalmatia Society School and College
Graphics Art Institute
Residential Model School and College
Mohammadpur Government Primary School
Preliminary observations from 7:30 am to 10:30 am revealed minimal voter engagement. At Dhaka City College, for instance, only 8% of eligible female voters and 9% of male voters had cast their ballots within the first three hours. Other polling centres reported turnout ranging from three to ten percent during the same period. Notably, there were no significant queues, reflecting the calm nature of the morning.
The table below summarises early voter turnout across the observed polling stations:
| Polling Station | Duration | Female (%) | Male (%) | Overall (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka City College | 3 hours | 8 | 9 | 8.5 |
| Rajdhani High School | 4 hours | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Lalmatia Society School and College | 3 hours | 9 | 10 | 9.5 |
| Graphics Art Institute | 4 hours | 10 | 11 | 10.5 |
| Residential Model School and College | 3 hours | 10 | 9 | 9.5 |
| Mohammadpur Government Primary School | 4 hours | 11 | 10 | 10.5 |
Presiding officers emphasised that lower turnout during the early hours is typical, with numbers expected to increase as the day progresses.
Observers visiting the polling stations noted a calm and disciplined environment. Law enforcement personnel were present and vigilant, ensuring that the process remained smooth and secure. No incidents of disorder were reported, and voters were able to cast their ballots safely.
Despite the peaceful atmosphere, electoral authorities and observers expressed concern over the low early turnout. The situation highlights the need for continued efforts to boost voter awareness and participation. While morning attendance was limited, there is optimism that voter numbers may rise in the afternoon, as more residents visit polling stations.
This early snapshot of Dhaka’s polling day underlines a broader challenge for the election authorities: maintaining voter engagement throughout the day while ensuring that the process remains safe, orderly, and transparent.