<span style="color: #222222;">About 40 per cent of over 74 lakh electors utilised their franchise  in the polling held for Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation today. The polling came to an end this evening at 6PM. However, the State Election Commission authorities have assured all those who were in queues to allow casting their vote. The authorities informed that 35.8 per cent polling registered by 5 PM and it is expected to touch about 40 per cent. The COVID positive electors have been asked to vote during the last hour between 5-6 PM and others who were in queues also have been allowed to cast their vote. Total 1122 candidates were in fray to the 150-division-GHMC. All major political parties are aspiring to capture the Mayor seat, which is reserved for General Woman this time. <br />''<br />''Our Correspondent Lakshmi reports that COVID pandemic and indifference among the urban educated working class especially of IT sector affected the polling. Not even half of the electors turned up to polling stations to elect their 150 corporators of the Civic body, GHMC. The percentage of polling is a bit better in suburban and adjoining areas with the districts in Telangana state, but the poll percentages in the core areas of Hyderabad are discouraging. However, the fate of 1122 candidates except of those who are in the contest in Old Malakpet division, have been sealed in the ballot boxes which will be opened on 4th of this month for counting of votes. The State Election Commission has announced repolling on Thursday, 3rd of this month for Old Malakpet division due to printing mistakes on the ballot paper. As per the Election authorities and senior police officials, the polling has been held peacefully except a few incidents of scuffle.</span><br />'' <span style="font-weight: bold; color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Total 9101 polling stations have been setup across 4 districts, Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, Medchal Malkajgiri and Sangareddy. Videography or live webcasting from about half of the polling stations is going on to ensure constant vigil.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>