Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified safety measures at worksites across the state in view of the prevailing severe heat conditions, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said on Tuesday.
Speaking to the media, the Minister said an advisory has already been issued asking people to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement during peak heat hours between 11 am and 3 pm. He added that outdoor work in sectors such as road construction and works department activities has been restricted during this period to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Pujari said mining operations have also been directed to adopt adequate precautionary measures, including the use of water sprinklers and fans, along with improved arrangements to ensure safer working conditions for labourers during extreme heat.
He further stated that the Transport Department has been instructed to ensure availability of drinking water for passengers at key points and to keep Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) ready to deal with dehydration cases.
“People who are required to travel during peak hours for urgent work should carry water, wear protective headgear such as hats or cloth coverings, and use sunglasses,” he advised.
Referring to reports of deaths due to suspected sunstroke, the Minister said the actual cause will be confirmed after postmortem examinations.
District collectors have been directed to personally review such cases on priority, and ex gratia assistance will be provided to the next of kin within 24 hours of confirmation of heat-related deaths, he said.
Appealing to the public, Pujari urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid stepping out during peak heat hours unless absolutely necessary.
