Bhubaneswar: With Cyclone “DANA” looming over Odisha, Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (H&UD), conducted a comprehensive review of preparedness measures with Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the state via a video conference. The meeting was held to ensure that all ULBs are fully equipped to handle the potential challenges posed by the cyclone.
Senior officials, including the Director of Municipal Administration, Special Secretaries, Additional Secretaries, Commissioners from five Municipal Corporations, and Executive Officers of all Municipalities and Notified Area Councils (NACs), participated in the meeting.
During the review, Padhee emphasized the need for constant coordination with district administrations and directed the immediate activation of the unified 24×7 control room to respond to the impending cyclone. She underscored the importance of ensuring key areas are fully addressed:
- Water Supply: ULBs were instructed to ensure uninterrupted access to clean water during and after the cyclone.
- Water Logging Management: Swift actions must be taken to prevent and manage flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
- Rapid Action Teams: Dedicated teams should be mobilized to respond quickly to emergencies that may arise during the cyclone.
Nodal officers were assigned to stay on high alert, continuously monitor the situation, and provide regular updates to ensure efficient coordination and minimize the impact on citizens.
Padhee stressed the importance of efficient communication and rapid response to safeguard the well-being of residents. With these measures in place, the ULBs are now fully prepared to handle any exigencies during the cyclone, ensuring that essential services such as water supply and flood management are maintained throughout this critical period.
Urban local bodies across Odisha are now on high alert as the state braces for Cyclone “DANA”, ensuring that key systems and services are in place to mitigate its effects.