Voters in the five model polling stations here were in for a pleasant surprise Thursday for they were accorded a red carpet welcome along with melodious music.
With the summer heat peaking, voters were also given buttermilk to cool them apart from the air-conditioned polling stations.
The new initiative of the Election Commission to make the voting experience a memorable one was appreciated by seasoned as well as first time voters.
According to a poll official, voters were also given seats instead of having to stand.
The Chennai South and Central constituencies had two such model stations while Chennai North had one.
"The environment is clean and tidy. It is a pleasant surprise," said a Chennai South voter.