Candidates’ new mantra: Morning walk & talk

Mumbai: To beat the scorching afternoon heat and sustain their campaign till May 20, when Mumbai goes to the polls, Lok Sabha candidates are heading to gardens, parks and beaches in the mornings to reach out to walkers and joggers, both young and old.

In Mumbai North-East constituency, BJP’s pick Mihir Kotecha has been campaigning in two to three parks every morning. On Thursday, he covered Lions Garden on Tilak Road in Ghatkopar (W), and Dr Hedgewar Garden at Nath Pai Nagar and Joggers Park in Ghatkopar (E).

Kotecha said he interacted with people of all age groups, including women, on various issues such as traffic, open spaces, and civic amenities. “During our walks, we discussed several issues affecting Mumbai North-East constituency, and even Maharashtra and the country. I have promised to work on them,” he said. “Open spaces are a key to good quality of life. I will push for developing more open spaces in Mumbai North-East, like the one in Mulund, and revamp the existing ones.”

Kotecha further said: “The people also supported PM Narendra Modiji’s vision for Viksit Bharat and promised to stand behind him to bring that vision into reality. They also extended their support to me and gave me their blessings to win the polls.”

In Mumbai North-West constituency, which is home to several sandy stretches like Juhu beach, the morning walk campaign has become a key electioneering tool. This week, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Amol Kirtikar caught up with voters at Juhu beach. “Started my day with a refreshing visit to Juhu beach! Engaged with morning walkers, joggers, and even joined an aerobic group for some fun. Had wonderful conversations with senior citizens, taking their valuable advice to heart,” Kirtikar posted on X.

In their interaction with poll candidates, many citizen groups have demanded more open spaces and better upkeep of the existing ones as BMC has failed to roll out a comprehensive open spaces policy for close to five years now.

Mumbai's Lok Sabha candidates begin morning walks for poll campaign

Lok Sabha candidates in Mumbai strategically conduct morning walks to engage with voters, discussing civic issues, promising development, and seeking advice. The campaign includes visits to gardens, parks, and beaches, such as Juhu beach, to interact with citizens of all age groups.

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