Amid intensifying heatwave conditions, the Odisha government has rolled out a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to mitigate the impact of extreme temperatures across the state. The decision was taken by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department following a review meeting with district collectors via video conferencing.

New SOP to Combat Heatwave

The state government has authorized district collectors to take necessary measures beyond the SOP if required. In areas experiencing excessive heat, temporary heatwave shelters will be set up to provide राहत and protection to the public.

Midday Heat Hours Under Strict Monitoring

With temperatures soaring between 11 AM and 3 PM, authorities have been directed to closely monitor passenger and goods transportation during peak heat hours. Arrangements such as rest points, ORS, and drinking water facilities are being made available for drivers on highways.

Ambulance services have also been put on high alert, with instructions to reach patients within 20 minutes of receiving a call.

Temperature Likely to Rise Further

The Meteorological Department has warned that temperatures may rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in the coming days. Western Odisha is expected to bear the brunt of the heatwave, while coastal regions will experience high humidity and discomfort even during nighttime.

School Closures Announced in Multiple Districts

Due to severe heatwave conditions, authorities have declared holidays in several districts:

• Boudh: Schools and anganwadi centres closed from April 18 to April 22
• Kalahandi: Government and private schools, along with anganwadi centres, closed from April 17 to April 21
• Sambalpur: All schools and colleges to remain closed from April 20 to April 22
• Subarnapur, Balangir, and Nabarangpur: Schools closed as part of precautionary measures

In institutions where examinations are ongoing, authorities have been instructed to ensure adequate drinking water and heat protection measures. Supplementary exams are being rescheduled to morning hours, typically between 7 AM and 9 AM.

Further Precautionary Measures in Nabarangpur

As per a notice issued by the district administration, all schools, colleges, anganwadi centres, and technical institutions in Nabarangpur will remain closed from April 20 until further orders. However, previously scheduled examinations will continue, preferably in the early morning to avoid peak heat exposure.

Government Urges Public Caution

The state government has urged citizens to avoid stepping out during peak hours, stay hydrated, and follow official advisories as the heatwave situation is expected to worsen in the coming days.