The Housing and Urban Development Department of Odisha has issued a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) ahead of the monsoon season. The directive mandates full preparedness to handle heavy rainfall, waterlogging, and public health risks in towns and cities across the state.
Accountability and Implementation
The SOP clearly states that officials will be held accountable for implementation, and any lapse will be viewed seriously, according to a department statement released on Tuesday. The department emphasized that the goal is to strengthen urban resilience and ensure citizen safety during the monsoon.
Drainage System Verification
As part of the directives, ULBs have been instructed to carry out 100% verification of drainage systems, including manholes, to prevent accidents. Damaged or uncovered manholes must be repaired immediately, and warning signage along with protective nets should be installed wherever repairs are pending.
Desilting and Encroachment Removal
Regular desilting of drains and removal of encroachments that block natural water flow have been made mandatory to reduce flood risks. To address chronic waterlogging, low-lying zones have been identified for focused intervention. ULBs have been directed to deploy adequate pump sets and DG sets in such areas for rapid dewatering.
Disaster Response and Public Health
The SOP also focuses on disaster response and public health. Multi-purpose cyclone shelters, along with schools and colleges, will be kept ready as temporary relief centres with drinking water, sanitation, and power supply. Special arrangements, including lady home guards, have been mandated to ensure the safety of women, children, and the elderly.
Operational Zones and Control Rooms
Urban areas will be divided into operational zones, each placed under designated officers responsible for emergency response and field coordination during heavy rainfall. Each ULB will set up a 24x7 control room to address civic complaints. Any monsoon-related road damage must be restored to motorable condition within 72 hours.
Disease Prevention Measures
To curb the spread of waterborne diseases, ULBs have been directed to intensify fogging, apply larvicides regularly, and strictly prevent water stagnation. Citizens have been urged to cooperate with ward committees to keep drains clear and make cities monsoon-ready.
