Odisha Orders Midday Work Ban to Protect Labourers from Heatwave
The Odisha Labour Department has announced strict measures to safeguard workers during the peak summer months.
From April 1 to June 15, 2026, all outdoor work is prohibited between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM across the state.
The directive applies to government departments, private employers, industrial units, shops, and contractors, mandating rescheduling of work hours to avoid the most dangerous heat periods.
For essential services that cannot halt operations, employers must provide:
- Unlimited access to cool drinking water
- Shaded rest areas
- On‑site medical facilities
- ORS packets for every worker
Health authorities, including CDMOs, SDMOs, PHCs, CHCs, and ESI hospitals, have been instructed to remain on high alert for heat‑related emergencies.
District administrations will monitor compliance to ensure strict enforcement.
This proactive step comes as Odisha braces for intensifying heatwaves, aiming to prevent casualties and protect vulnerable labourers.
