Bhubaneswar: With mercury dropping to 4 degree Censius in Phulbani and the Met office forecasting severe cold wave condition in some districts till December 25, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Kumar Jena on Tuesday wrote to district collectors and municipal commissioners to take steps to protect homeless people and livestock.
In a letter to the officers, the SRC said since the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Regional Centre here has forecast in mid-day bulletin that cold wave to severe cold wave condition is very likely in Angul, Dhenkanal, Kalahandi, Sundargarh and Jharsuguda districts, they have to remain alert regarding health condition of old people, homeless and livestock.
“There is increased likelihood of cold related illnesses among people, which may get aggravated due to prolonged exposure to cold. Livestock may also be affected due to prolong exposure to cold,” he said.
He told the collectors to ensure accommodation of vulnerable people and livestock in school buildings, community buildings and other closed enclosures at night. He also asked them to send a report indicating the number of such buildings used as night shelters and number of people sheltered therein on daily basis till the cold wave situation is over.
Jena directed that people in these districts should be advised to stay indoor during night and avoid exposure to cold. Movement of vehicles, particularly two-wheelers should be monitored, he added.
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