Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to enforce stricter guidelines in urban areas to tackle the anticipated heatwave conditions during the upcoming summer.
The departments concerned have been directed to ensure preparedness and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) without delay.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari earlier reviewed the State’s readiness, while Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday at Lok Seva Bhawan. The meeting focused on water supply, shade arrangements, water kiosks, medical assistance, and public awareness campaigns across all municipalities.
Senior officials from the Housing & Urban Development department, municipal commissioners, representatives from the Public Health Engineering Organisation, and other departments attended the meeting. Key measures include uninterrupted water supply, installation of roadside kiosks, creation of shaded zones, limiting construction work during peak hours, and strengthening emergency health services.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast more heatwave days this year, with April and May expected to record higher temperatures, especially in western Odisha. In response, the government has already issued SOPs to mitigate possible risks.
Authorities have instructed schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres to adjust timings for student safety. Officials emphasised that negligence in implementation will not be tolerated, as protecting lives and health remains the top priority.