Odisha Govt Directs ULBs to Stay Prepared for Heavy Rainfall

Bhubaneswar: With heavy rainfall forecast across Odisha, particularly in southern districts, the Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department has directed all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to remain on high alert.

Municipal Commissioners have been instructed to keep Rapid Action Teams (RATs) ready for immediate deployment, ensure dewatering pumps and machinery are functional, and closely monitor low‑lying and waterlogging‑prone areas.

Temporary shelters are to be prepared for possible evacuations, while coordination with district administrations and line departments has been emphasised to minimise disruption.

The directive also mandates strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) and H&UD Department.

Officials stressed that timely field‑level preparedness and proactive measures are crucial to safeguard citizens during the upcoming monsoon spell.