Udupi (DHNS): A team of officials, led by Deputy Commissioner M Kurma Rao, visited polling stations in Hangarakatte Balkudru primary school and also Kudru (island) to create awareness on voting.

The DC directed officials to ensure that polling stations have all facilities.

He also visited Balkudru Kiniyara Kudru in a boat and interacted with voters. A 90-year-old Jerome D’Souza, Manjunath, and Seetha shared their opinions.

They said Kudru is situated amid the Seetha river. Without any connecting bridge, the residents are inconvenienced.

“In case of emergency, especially during visits to hospitals and markets, the residents are inconvenienced. Children have to depend on boats to reach the main road. Even, farmers have to use boats to reach their farmland,” they said.

They demanded a bridge to the island. Resident Jerome said, “In spite of difficulties, we all are committed to exercising our franchise.”

He said that he has been exercising franchise since Madras presidency.

“Even this time, 27 voters from six houses will exercise our right,” he added.

An oath on voting was administered on the occasion.