As Cyclone ‘Montha’ approaches the Odisha coast, the Housing & Urban Development (H&UD) Department has placed all urban areas of the state on high alert and is intensifying preparedness measures to ensure public safety and maintain essential services.
The leave of all officers involved in emergency duties has been cancelled. Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, the Minister of Housing & Urban Development, has directed all field officers to remain at their respective headquarters and stay vigilant around the clock.
In line with the Minister’s guidance, the Department has issued comprehensive instructions to all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to ensure effective cyclone preparedness, response, and relief.
All ULBs are instructed to identify and monitor waterlogging-prone areas, deploy necessary manpower and equipment, and ensure timely drainage of stormwater. Cyclone shelters are on standby, with arrangements for cooked food, safe drinking water, and emergency supplies. Field officials are directed to maintain an uninterrupted water supply, ensure the functionality of diesel generator sets and pumps, and keep sanitation teams ready for immediate deployment.
“The safety and well-being of citizens is our top priority. All ULBs must remain fully alert and take immediate preventive and relief measures,” stated Dr. Mohapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development.
The Department is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the State Emergency Operations Centre for timely action. Smt. Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the H&UD Department, has written to all Commissioners and Executive Officers, instructing them to strictly follow departmental guidelines and ensure seamless coordination at the field level.
