Bhubaneswar: In response to the intensifying summer heatwave, Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, the Housing and Urban Development Minister of Odisha, reviewed the state’s preparedness to tackle the rising temperatures in urban areas. During a high-level review meeting held on Friday, the minister instructed immediate steps to ensure smooth water supply, prevent heat-related issues, and maintain cleanliness in urban zones across the state.
In an official statement, Minister Mahapatra laid out stringent measures for maintaining drinking water supply and directed authorities to activate 24×7 control rooms to address any complaints promptly. He emphasized the importance of making non-functional tube wells operational and ensuring continuous service to urban areas. The minister also urged the strict enforcement of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to handle the heatwave efficiently.
Recognizing the unpredictable weather patterns and soaring temperatures in cities, the state government has implemented targeted strategies to ensure uninterrupted water supply to urban populations. Minister Mahapatra also instructed the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to address water pipeline maintenance, deploy water tankers, and quickly resolve complaints within a 24-hour timeframe. These measures are critical to managing water shortages during the ongoing heatwave.
The Principal Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Usha Padhee, outlined the urgency of the situation and shared plans for collaborating with local authorities to maintain adequate drinking water. This proactive approach comes as the temperature rise exacerbates the challenges faced by urban residents, with buildings and heat-absorbing infrastructures increasing heat retention in cities.
Minister Mahapatra also recommended setting up water kiosks at strategic public locations, including markets, railway stations, and bus stands. These water distribution centers will be operated in partnership with voluntary organizations, ensuring that the water is of good quality and provided at easily accessible points. The minister emphasized daily cleaning of these kiosks to maintain hygiene, with a focus on preventing water contamination.
Additionally, authorities have been instructed to raise awareness regarding keeping water containers outside homes for birds. This initiative encourages citizens to actively participate in public cleanliness, helping mitigate the challenges of the heatwave.
The meeting also highlighted the need to manage dust pollution, which worsens during high temperatures. Mahapatra directed local authorities to take action against the burning of solid waste and instructed the construction sector to cover building sites to limit dust emissions. He stressed the importance of watering open areas to control dust accumulation and improve air quality.
The minister also urged vehicle owners transporting construction materials to ensure they are covered with tarpaulins, thereby preventing dust from spreading and adhering to roads.
Addressing environmental concerns, the minister emphasized the restoration and maintenance of water bodies in urban areas. He recommended continuous efforts to ensure clean, accessible water sources and encouraged urban bodies to adopt eco-friendly practices to maintain air and water quality. The government has made it a priority to enforce environmental regulations and take swift action to improve the quality of life for residents.
The meeting saw the participation of Municipal Director Arindam Dakua, Additional Secretary Rabindra Sahoo, Commissioners, and Executive Officers of various municipal corporations across Odisha. The collective focus remains on public health, ensuring efficient water management, and maintaining clean surroundings during the peak summer months. The collaborative approach of state and local authorities is expected to strengthen the city’s resilience against extreme weather while enhancing public well-being.
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