Bhubaneswar: In what can be termed as the first step towards preparation for general elections in Odisha, the State Election Commission has directed District Collectors to submit estimates regarding expenditures for the upcoming polls.

Briefing reporters about it here today, Odisha Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Surendra Kumar said, "This is a routine process. The District Collectors have been directed to submit report over various types of poll related expenses such as transportation of the polling parties and preparation of infrastructure like booths and strong rooms."

"Keeping in view the price escalation and prescription of the Election Commission of India (ECI), we will do the budgeting. As per the direction of the ECI, process has started for establishment of strong rooms in each district for safekeeping of EVMs," the official said.

He further informed that EVMs, VVPATs will be used in all the polling booth across the state during the polls.