In the light of the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) prediction of scorching heat wave condition for the next few days, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has directed all district Collectors to take precautionary measures to manage the heat wave and water scarcity situation across Odisha.
In a letter, SRC Satyabrata Sahu directed the collectors to launch awareness campaigns immediately to make people aware of the risks associated with the heat wave, identifying the risk and what to do if some is affected.
“The district administration is required to take advance steps to identify the water scarcity pockets and prepare action plan for ensuring supply of water for drinking and other uses through tanker to those areas. Reports of water scarcity are to be responded to immediately,” the letter read.
Besides, the SRC also ordered to store sufficient life saving medicines, saline, ORS in the dispensaries, PHCs, CHCs and Subdivision/ District Headquarters Hospitals to meet the requirement.
“Special arrangement may be made and separate wards/beds be earmarked for treatment of heat stroke patients in different hospitals. The ESI Dispensaries may be directed to treat the general public,” the letter read further.
"Paniya Jala Seva Kendras" (Drinking Water Kiosks) are required to be opened by Urban Local Bodies/ Gram Panchayats at market places, bus stands and other congregation points. Similarly, the construction/ repair of shallow vats may also be ensured for roaming livestock, the SRC stated.
“In schools, colleges and other academic/technical institutions, extra care has to be taken to ensure availability of drinking water... Sufficient ORS are also to be kept in schools, colleges and provided to students/ staff requiring the same... Schools may also be advised to allocate some time during school hours to give heat wave precautionary tips to the students,” the commissioner said.
“Anganwadi Centres may remain open in morning hours only. Availability of portable water in all AWCs must be checked and ensured. Sufficient numbers of ORS packets should also be available with ASHA and AVVWs,” the commissioner added.