Bhubaneswar: In anticipation of the upcoming summer heatwave, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has rolled out a comprehensive action plan to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
A preparatory meeting chaired by BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil was held at the Ekamra Hall in the BMC headquarters to discuss and finalize measures to combat the scorching heat.
The meeting, attended by Additional Commissioners Ratnakar Sahoo, Shubhendu Kumar Sahoo, and Sasmita Sahoo, along with City Engineer Bilas Kumar Behera and Chief Finance Officer Gobinda Chandra Nayak, focused on key initiatives such as drinking water availability, healthcare preparedness, and public awareness campaigns.
To address water scarcity during the peak summer months, BMC will set up drinking water kiosks across the city. Zonal Commissioners have been tasked with identifying suitable locations for these kiosks.
Additionally, arrangements will be made to provide water for stray animals, cattle, and birds, following guidelines from the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department.
Last year, the BMC established 67 water kiosks in the North Zone, 69 in the South-East Zone, and 77 in the South-West Zone.
Similarly, 51 water stations for animals were set up in the North Zone, 134 in the South-East Zone, and 73 in the South-West Zone. This year, the focus will be on high-traffic areas such as bus stands, markets, and major intersections.
All hospitals in the city have been directed to set up air-conditioned rooms and beds for heatstroke patients. Essential medicines, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), and other supplies must be stocked in adequate quantities. Urban Public Health Officers will monitor the availability of ORS in schools and Anganwadi centers.
To prevent heat-related illnesses and fatalities, the BMC will launch an extensive awareness campaign using social media, posters, banners, and smart city display boards. Pamphlets will be distributed to educate citizens on precautions to take during extreme heat.
School timings may be adjusted to avoid peak heat hours, and students will be encouraged to carry water bottles, umbrellas, and wear footwear.
Anganwadi centers will also ensure the availability of drinking water and ORS. Construction workers will be provided with shaded rest areas and drinking water at worksites.
The Labour Department has mandated a work stoppage between 11 AM and 3 PM to protect workers from the harsh sun. Dust control measures, such as water sprinkling, will also be enforced at construction sites.
The BMC will open seven shelters across the city, accommodating up to 356 people. Separate arrangements will be made for men and women, with provisions for drinking water and ORS.
The Energy Department has been instructed to ensure uninterrupted power supply, especially to hospitals and water supply offices.
The BMC Commissioner emphasized the need for efficient water management, urging citizens to avoid wastage during the summer months.
A dedicated control room will operate from the BMC headquarters, with a helpline number (1929) for heatwave-related emergencies. Immediate action will be taken in case of heatstroke-related deaths or media reports.
Deputy Commissioner (Emergency) Rashmirekha Pradhan coordinated the meeting, which was attended by senior officials from various departments.
