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Bhubaneswar: In view of the heavy rainfall forecast by Indian Meteorological Department, the Odisha government today issued a notification to all district administrations not to allow participation of children during Independence Day parades.
The directive came after Odisha Chief Minister while reviewing the flood and rainfall conditions in the State asked authorities to ensure safety of children during the Independence Day celebrations.
“My concern is lightning should not strike children, so let's keep the Independence Day functions to the minimum. I don't know how to reduce it though,” Patnaik said.
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Later in the day, special secretary of the Home department, Santosh Bala issued a letter instructing all Revenue Divisional Commissioners, Collectors and district magistrates to ensure that Independence Day parades do not consist of children in view of adverse weather conditions.
Besides, all the cultural and sports activities should also be avoided.
Sources said such decision has been taken keeping in view the issue of safety of children.
All the ceremonial parades at the State capital as well as in other districts and sub-divisional headquarters including other official parades will be restricted to participation by police and para military contingents only, the notification read.
Bala in her letter instructed officials to make necessary arrangements along with precautions to ensure safety of guests and other participants during the Independence Day celebrations.
As per the forecast of Indian Meteorological Department, the low pressure formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal is likely to trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall in the State during next 48 hours.
Districts including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Puri, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur will receive heavy to very heavy showers for next two days.
