District-Level Training Meeting for Heatwave Management and Response Held in Jharsuguda.

Jharsuguda: A district-level training meeting on heatwave management and response was held at the District Mining Office auditorium under the chairmanship of Additional District Magistrate (Revenue) Kishor Chandra Swain. The meeting was attended by Sub-Collector Sabysachi Panda, Emergency Officer Umakant Pradhan, all Group Development Officers, Municipal Executive Officers, Tehsildars, and Line Department Officers.

Medical specialist from the District Headquarters Hospital, Bibhudatta Mohanty, joined as the master trainer. The meeting focused on preparing for the upcoming heatwave and ensuring that services are provided to the public at all levels.

Following the instructions from the Chief Minister during a virtual meeting with district collectors on the 18th, the officials were directed to take all necessary steps to prevent any heatwave-related deaths. The measures taken so far were reviewed in line with the decisions made during the preparatory meeting held on February 25 under the chairmanship of the district collector.

According to the SOP, the opening of water kiosks in designated areas has been moved up from April 1 to March 25. Officials were instructed to ensure proper cleanliness and hygiene at the kiosks, provide adequate drinking water, and have an operator present at all times.

Officials were also advised to organize awareness meetings in water-scarce areas and carry out public announcements using loudspeakers. Water sprinkling in dusty areas and the establishment of control rooms in offices were also reviewed.

Steps to manage heatwaves in mining areas, industrial zones, and construction sites were discussed. School authorities were instructed to provide training to teachers and ensure proper facilities in schools. Tata Power officials were directed to set up control rooms, identify overload points, and ensure uninterrupted power supply to hospitals and essential services.

Transport officials were directed to adjust bus schedules, provide drinking water and ORS in buses, and make basic medical facilities available at bus stops. The Water and Sanitation Department was instructed to ensure proper drinking water supply in urban and rural areas. Forest officials were directed to ensure drinking water for wildlife and protect forests from fire hazards. Mining officials were asked to provide air conditioning in the cabins of large transport vehicles.

Traffic police in Jharsuguda town were directed to set up temporary shades at busy intersections for the convenience of commuters. Master trainer Mohanty advised everyone to remain alert and raise public awareness about heatwave management. Emergency officer Pradhan explained the purpose and direction of the program, while DPO Sushant Mishra offered the vote of thanks.