Cold Wave Warning; SRC Order On Night Shelters In Odisha

Bhubaneswar: With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing cold wave warning for six districts in the next 48 hours, Odisha Government on Monday asked the collectors to take necessary measures.

The IMD, in an evening bulletin, issued a yellow warning for the six interior districts of Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Deogarh, Angul, Boudh and Kandhamal for three days till January 2.

In a release, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) said since there is an increased likelihood of cold-related illnesses among people, it may get further aggravated due to prolonged exposure to cold.

The collectors of the districts under orange and yellow warning were asked to ensure that immediate arrangement is made for opening of school buildings, community buildings and other available structures for use as night shelter by the homeless and needy people.

He also asked them to submit a report mentioning the number of such buildings used as night shelters and the number of people sheltered there on a daily basis till the cold wave situation is over.

The collectors were also directed to step up public awareness campaign on do’s and don’ts to protect people and livestock from cold wave in rural and urban areas.