Odisha Govt Issues SOP to Urban Local Bodies for Tackling Heatwave Crisis

Bhubaneswar: As temperatures begin to rise unusually due to erratic climatic conditions and abnormal weather patterns, the Housing & Urban Development (H&UD) Department has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) directing all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to take immediate and necessary precautionary measures to combat the heatwave crisis.

The SOP outlines a comprehensive action plan, focusing on ensuring adequate drinking water supply, mitigating urban heat effects, and enforcing environmental measures to protect both human lives and the urban ecosystem.

Key Measures Outlined in the SOP

Ensuring Uninterrupted Water Supply

ULBs have been instructed to ensure that drinking water pipelines remain fully functional, with any reported issues being resolved within 24 hours. In areas facing water scarcity, water tankers must be deployed immediately, and additional tankers should be arranged if needed.

Tube wells and hand pumps must be kept in operational condition, with spare parts readily available for repairs. Control rooms at PHEO and WATCO offices will function round the clock to address complaints regarding water shortages.

To provide instant relief, ULBs have been directed to set up more Water Kiosks—Paniya Jal Bitaran Kendras—at strategic locations such as bus stands, railway stations, marketplaces, and public offices. These kiosks will be managed by Mission Shakti SHGs, NGOs, and local federations, ensuring that the water provided is potable and hygienic, with strict sanitation measures in place.

Regulating Construction and Dust Control

Construction agencies and households have been advised to cover construction sites and sprinkle water over uncovered areas to prevent dust pollution. Vehicles transporting construction materials must be fully covered with tarpaulin sheets and adhere to speed limits to prevent dust dispersion.

ULBs have also been directed to clear roadside Construction & Demolition (C&D) waste regularly and ensure proper disposal of debris. The earthen layers beside roads should be maintained below metal levels to prevent dust accumulation due to vehicular movement or rainfall.

Environmental Protection and Heatwave Mitigation

To combat rising temperatures, authorities have enforced a strict ban on the burning of municipal solid waste, garden waste, and tree residues. The use of coal and coal briquettes in roadside hotels and eateries has been prohibited to curb air pollution and further temperature rise.

All urban water bodies must be restored and rejuvenated to increase public access to clean and safe water. Additionally, the H&UD Department has urged citizens to place water pots outside their homes for stray birds and animals, ensuring water is changed regularly to maintain hygiene.

Strict Compliance and Monitoring

The SOP emphasizes strict enforcement of environmental regulations and National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines to improve urban environmental conditions. Police, Forest Department, and Odisha Pollution Control Board (OPCB) will oversee compliance in their respective domains.

With the heatwave expected to intensify in the coming months, the Odisha government has directed all ULBs to immediately implement these precautionary measures to safeguard public health and urban sustainability. Regular reviews and monitoring will ensure swift action against violators and timely interventions to mitigate the impact of extreme heat.