Odisha Steps Up Heat Wave Preparedness; Minister Orders Strict SOP Compliance Across ULBs

Bhubaneswar: With temperatures set to rise, the Housing & Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha on Monday reviewed its preparedness for the upcoming heat wave, directing officials to intensify preventive measures and ensure uninterrupted civic services.

The review meeting, held at Kharabela Bhawan, was chaired by Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, who stressed the need for a proactive and coordinated response to mitigate heat-related risks across urban areas.

At the outset, Arindam Dakua, Director of Municipal Administration, presented an overview of the Heat Wave Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), outlining key preparedness strategies for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

Addressing officials virtually, the minister underscored that all departments and ULBs must strictly adhere to the SOPs, ensuring timely implementation of measures to strengthen urban resilience. He placed particular emphasis on maintaining continuous and equitable water supply, directing WATCO and the Public Health Engineering wing to prevent any disruption during peak heat conditions.

Municipal Commissioners and Executive Officers were instructed to roll out local heat mitigation measures, including installation of public drinking water points, shaded rest areas, and cooling facilities in high-footfall areas.

To enhance coordination, Project Directors of District Urban Development Agencies (DUDAs) were tasked with closely monitoring implementation at the ground level and ensuring swift response to emergencies.

The minister also directed all ULBs to make 24×7 control rooms operational, with dedicated helpline numbers widely publicised for public access.

Issuing a strong directive, Dr. Mahapatra said, “No one should die of sunstroke,” urging officials to remain alert and ensure timely intervention through awareness campaigns and field-level vigilance.

Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the department, emphasised strict monitoring and accountability to ensure effective execution of the measures.

Senior officials of the department, including Additional Secretaries and municipal authorities across the state, participated in the meeting through video conferencing, ensuring a unified and coordinated approach.

Reaffirming its commitment, the department stated that all efforts will be focused on protecting urban residents and maintaining essential services during extreme weather conditions.