Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the monsoon season, the Odisha government has issued a standard operating procedure (SOP) for all urban local bodies (ULBs) to adopt strict preventive and response measures against urban flooding.
The SOP issued by the Housing and Urban Development department has also underlined the need to remain prepared for natural disasters and emergency situations.
As the focus is on drainage management, the ULBs have been asked to conduct a thorough verification of drain networks, including manholes, and ensure immediate repair or secure covering of damaged structures.
Officials said temporary safeguards such as warning signage and protective nets must be installed where repairs are pending. Regular desilting of drains and removal of encroachments obstructing water flow have also been made mandatory.
Vulnerable and low-lying areas have been identified for targeted intervention to prevent waterlogging. Authorities will deploy adequate pump sets and DG sets to facilitate quick de-watering. Urban areas will be divided into operational zones, each overseen by designated officers to ensure swift emergency response.
This apart, all multi-purpose cyclone shelters, along with schools and colleges, will be readied as temporary relief centres with essential facilities such as drinking water, sanitation and electricity.
The ULBs have been directed to intensify anti-vector measures to prevent diseases like dengue and malaria. This includes regular fogging, larvicide application and strict monitoring to eliminate water stagnation and waste dumping in drains.
As part of measures to ensure seamless coordination, 24/7 control rooms will be set up in every ULB for realtime grievance redressal related to water supply, drainage and road blockages. The SOP also mandates that damaged roads be restored to motorable condition within 72 hours, officials added.
