Muzaffarpur, Nov. 9: The Election Commission of India (EC) is upbeat over the successful webcast from polling booths in the five phases of Assembly polls.

The commission has now asked district election officers-cum-district magistrates to explore possibilities to provide web connections to district headquarters for direct telecast during the counting of votes.

The commission has directed chief electoral officer, Bihar, Sudhir Rakesh to prepare a comprehensive and sustainable plan for web monitoring of counting halls at district headquarters.

The Election Commission of India has also directed Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to lend a hand to the district administration by providing adequate connections during vote counting on November 24 and 25.

Acting on EC’s directives, Mukesh Nigam, BSNL senior general manager, Patna Circle, directed R.N. Pal, general manager, Muzaffarpur Circle, to provide connections to the counting halls in the districts.

Nigam has asked Pal to provide two to four broadband connections to each Assembly constituency in Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi and Sheohar.

Nigam said that Pal would also have to ensure adequate cables for the connection at the counting centres.

BSNL will also provide necessary technical assistance to the district election officials in the wake of their demands. The webcast of counting halls will be restricted to EC officials, Rakesh and the district election officials.

Pal said he has received the necessary directives from Nigam and his office would be able to provide broadband connectivity.

Pal said his office would do its best to ensure clear and uninterrupted connection at the highest upload speed of 256kbps for effective monitoring of vote counting.

He said he has checked the strength and availability of cables in the vicinity of the counting halls as well.The counting of votes is scheduled on November 24. The sixth and dinal phase of polling will be held on Election Commission of IndiaNovember 20.