On Friday, the Maharashtra State Election Commission announced January 15 as a public holiday in areas under the 29 municipal corporations where polling for civic elections is scheduled. The directive, issued by the State Election Commission, applies to 29 municipal corporations across the state, including Mumbai, Pune, Thane, and Navi Mumbai, with the aim of ensuring smooth polling and encouraging higher voter turnout.
The public holiday will impact the functioning of a wide range of offices and institutions across the region. The establishments affected include:
Government and semi-government offices
Corporations and statutory boards
Public sector undertakings (PSUs)
Banks
Central government offices located within the BMC jurisdiction
In addition, several private offices may opt to remain closed, subject to their respective organisational policies.
The municipal elections will have an impact on financial markets. Both the BSE and NSE will be closed for a full trading holiday on January 15. All sectors, such as equity, derivatives, commodities, and electronic gold receipts, will be halted for the day.
Residents can expect essential services to continue operating normally during the holiday. Hospitals, ambulances, police, and fire services will remain fully functional. Public transport, including local trains and BEST buses, is also expected to run as usual, with authorities making additional arrangements to ensure voters can reach polling stations smoothly.
It is anticipated that schools and colleges operated by the government and civic bodies will be closed for the day.
Classes at private schools and colleges might be put on hold, especially if their facilities are designated as polling locations.
The Maharashtra government has imposed a four-day dry period from January 13 to 16 across 29 municipal corporation areas. During this time, the sale and consumption of alcohol will be prohibited, and liquor shops, bars, and permit rooms will remain closed. Authorities have warned of strict action against violations and increased security in sensitive areas.
