**Bhubaneswar:** The Home Department today issued a directive to all Collectors to ensure that parade on Independence Day is restricted to police and para-military contingents only.
The directive was issued following Indian Metrological Department’s (IMD) alert about heavy to very heavy rainfall across Odisha on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“It is advised that the parade may not consist of children in view of the adverse weather conditions. Cultural and sports activities may also be avoided,” the notification read.
The letter signed by Special Secretary (Home) Dr Santosh Bala instructed that adequate precautions may be taken to ensure safety of guests and participants during the celebrations.
