Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has conducted a high-level review of preparedness to tackle the upcoming heatwave, with Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra directing strict implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
According to an official release, the meeting held at Kharavel Bhawan on Tuesday assessed readiness of urban local bodies and outlined key measures to minimise heat-related risks. The Minister emphasised that essential civic services must remain uninterrupted and called for coordinated action across departments.
He issued instructions to ensure continuous and equitable water supply, directing officials of Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) and the Public Health Departet to prevent disruptions during peak summer. Municipal authorities have also been asked to set up drinking water kiosks, shaded rest areas and cooling arrangements in crowded public places.
Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, Smt. Usha Padhee, emphasised strict adherence to SOPs and called for continuous monitoring and accountability to ensure effective implementation at the ground level.
All urban local bodies have been directed to operationalise 24×7 control rooms and release dedicated helpline numbers for public assistance.
Adopting a people-centric approach, the Minister stressed that “there should not be a single death due to heatstroke,” urging officials to remain alert and proactive at all levels.
The review also focused on strengthening district-level monitoring, with DUDA officials tasked to oversee field implementation and emergency response.
Senior officials of the department attended the meeting, while municipal authorities across the state joined via video conferencing.
