In anticipation of the forthcoming heat wave, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) conducted a preparatory meeting at the Ekamra Hall in its headquarters today.
Chaired by BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, the meeting was attended by Additional Commissioners Ratnakar Sahu, Subhendu Kumar Sahu, Smt. Sasmita Sahu, City Engineer Bilas Kumar Behera, Chief Finance Officer Govind Chandra Nayak, and other BMC and DISCOM officials.
Key Measures Announced:
- Work Stoppage: All work will be halted from 11 am to 3 pm.
- Drinking Water Service Centers: These will be set up at various locations across the city, including crowded places, bus stands, squares, bazaars, and haats. Water will also be provided for animals such as cattle and dogs, as per the guidelines issued by the Fisheries and Livestock Development Department.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals will have special air-conditioned rooms and beds for sunstroke victims, along with necessary medicines and ORS. The Urban Public Health Officer has been directed to ensure these provisions.
- Public Awareness Campaign: A concerted effort will be made to create public awareness about preventing heat stroke through various media, social media, posters, banners, and leaflets. The message will also be displayed on the Smart City Display Board.
- Special Control Room: A control room will be set up on the second floor of the BMC headquarters with a special phone number, 1929, to address heat wave-related issues.
- School Adjustments: Schools will have altered teaching timings, and students will be required to wear shoes and bring water bottles and umbrellas. Drinking water arrangements will be made in Anganwadi centers.
- Shelters for the Homeless: Daytime rest facilities will be provided in public houses, community halls, and urban shelters, with separate arrangements for men and women. About 356 people will be accommodated in 7 shelters in the BMC area.
- Power Supply Management: TPCODL Superintending Engineer has been instructed to ensure no power cuts during the summer, particularly for essential services like hospitals and drinking water supply offices.
The BMC aims to protect the residents of Bhubaneswar from the adverse effects of the heat wave through these comprehensive measures, ensuring their safety and well-being.
