Bhubaneswar: In a bid to strengthen urban resilience ahead of the rainy season, the Odisha government has rolled out a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), outlining a time-bound action plan to tackle monsoon-related challenges and ensure public safety.
The directive has been issued under the guidance of Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, with a strong emphasis on strict implementation and accountability. Officials have been warned that any negligence in executing the measures will be taken seriously.
As part of the preparedness drive, ULBs have been instructed to carry out complete verification of drainage systems, including manholes, across urban areas. Immediate repair or secure covering of damaged manholes has been prioritised, while temporary safety arrangements such as warning signs and protective barriers must be put in place wherever required. Regular desilting of drains and removal of encroachments blocking natural water flow have also been made mandatory to prevent urban flooding.
To address chronic waterlogging, vulnerable and low-lying areas have been identified for focused intervention. Adequate pump sets and DG sets will be deployed in these zones to enable quick water evacuation. Cities will also be divided into operational zones, each overseen by designated officers to ensure swift response and coordination during emergencies.
The SOP also focuses on strengthening disaster response infrastructure. Multi-purpose cyclone shelters, along with schools and colleges, will be readied as temporary relief centres equipped with essential services such as drinking water, sanitation, and electricity. Special arrangements, including deployment of women personnel, will be made to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly.
Public health measures form a key component of the plan, with ULBs directed to intensify fogging and anti-larval operations to curb diseases like dengue and malaria. Authorities have also been asked to prevent water stagnation and strictly monitor waste disposal to reduce health risks during the monsoon.
To ensure real-time response, each ULB will establish a 24/7 control room to handle complaints related to water supply, drainage congestion, and road blockages. Additionally, any damage to roads during the monsoon must be repaired within 72 hours to minimise disruption to daily life.
The state government has also urged citizens to cooperate with local authorities and community representatives in maintaining cleanliness and preventing drain blockages, reinforcing a collective approach to monsoon preparedness.
