Joint strategy by Odisha–Chhattisgarh administrations to tackle heatwave; separate guidelines for industries and transport sector

Jharsuguda: Keeping in view the ongoing heatwave conditions in the state, a comprehensive administrative coordination meeting was held between Odisha and Chhattisgarh to ensure the safety of workers and drivers in major industrial establishments, mining belts, and transport corridors between the two states.

Hon’ble Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, who joined the meeting virtually, emphasized the importance of maintaining coordination and information exchange between both states. A detailed roadmap has been prepared to protect workers in industrial areas and drivers transporting goods between the states from the effects of the heatwave.

During the meeting, decisions were also taken to ensure the safety of truck drivers and helpers traveling along National Highway-49. The Minister reviewed the situation and stated that since NH-49 is a highly sensitive corridor, it is the primary responsibility of the police and administration to ensure that no loss of life occurs due to the heatwave. He directed the preparation of a special roadmap for safety measures and temporary shelters along the route, especially after 11 AM. Special emphasis was given to providing Sintex water tanks and drinking water facilities near the Govindpur toll plaza.

The meeting was attended by Jharsuguda District Collector Kunal Motiram Chavan, Raigarh (Chhattisgarh) Collector Mayank Chaturvedi, MCL CMD Uday A. Kaole, and senior officials from both districts. The Jharsuguda Collector stated that all precautionary measures are being taken and special monitoring is underway in heatwave-affected areas. Similarly, the Raigarh Collector stressed driver awareness and the creation of safety corridors. He also proposed installing awareness signboards at various locations with support from NHAI and the PWD department.

Several important decisions were taken to combat the heatwave and ensure driver safety. Considering the severe heat conditions, movement of non-AC transport vehicles will be restricted from 11 AM to 3 PM during April and May. Workers have been prohibited from working in open areas during these hours. It has been advised to convert crew cabins of transport vehicles into air-conditioned units.

All petrol pumps and key locations along the highway will be equipped with water booths and hydration kiosks. Special mobile water kiosks will be arranged near the Govindpur toll plaza. Industries and transport agencies have been instructed to provide adequate shade, drinking water, rest areas, and first-aid facilities at truck parking zones.

Additionally, the use of water sprinklers on roads and deployment of ambulances at multiple points along NH-49 have been decided for emergency situations. Provision of water troughs for animals has also been emphasized. It has been decided that there is no need to wait for further advice from the Transport Commissioner to link vehicle insurance with drivers’ life insurance. Medical teams have also been instructed to stock ORS at various locations.

Additional District Magistrate (Revenue) Kishore Chandra Swain delivered the welcome address. Sub-Collector Sabyasachi Panda, Emergency Officer Mrutyunjaya Sabar, along with labor officers and regional transport officers from both districts, were present.

The meeting emphasized coordinated efforts among all departments to effectively tackle the heatwave.