The poll heat seems to have overtaken the rising mercury levels as candidates of political parties are busy re-drawing their campaign strategies to beat the scorching heat.
The Hindu caught up with four candidates in Ernakulam district to ask how they were coping with the rising temperatures.
“My padayatra will begin from near Vaduthala boat jetty road on Monday and the time schedule being chalked out is from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., and from 4 p.m. into the night daily,” said Hibi Eden, Congress candidate in Ernakulam Assembly constituency. “All my family members and well wishers have advised that I should take water at regular intervals. The favourites are sambharam and warm water. I may also have fruits to overcome the scorching sun,” he said.
Sebastian Paul, Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate contesting in the Thrikkakara constituency, said sticking to a time schedule might not work, as the excitement and spirit of the workers have peaked. “The rising temperatures outside seem of no concern when we step out into the public to face the election heat,” he said. Mr. Paul, who is currently visiting homes in his constituency, said people are offering him warm water. “I have lots of water to beat the heat,” he said.
Eldhose Kunnappillil, who is trying his luck as a Congress candidate in Perumbavoor, said new faces like him in the fray could not afford to stay indoors to evade the sun. “It may be a problem for those who have completed two to three terms as an MLA. My plan is to start early and campaign till the night hours,” he said.
Mr. Eldhose’s favourite solutions to beat the sweltering heat include a glass of goat’s milk and Ayurvedic kashayam daily. “I will also take lots of water to overcome the heat,” he said over telephone, after a house visit in Odakkali on Sunday afternoon.
A.M. Yousuf, CPI (M) candidate in Kalamassery constituency, said in a lighter vein that only the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidates were feeling the scorching heat as their electoral prospects had taken a hit. “I do not feel the heat outside thanks to the warmth and spirit shown by party workers and all those supporting me this election,” he said. He receives anything that party workers and well-wishers offer him to overcome the heat. “They are taking care of my health,” he said.
