Odisha is gearing up to tackle an early heatwave with strict measures to ensure public safety. From April 2, all schools will start morning classes, while the government has ruled out power cuts during peak hours.
Early classes to beat the heat
With temperatures already soaring, schools across Odisha will begin classes at 7 am to keep students out of the afternoon sun. Anganwadi centres will also adjust their schedule, operating from 7 am to 9 am.
No work under the blazing Sun
Construction workers and factory labourers will get a mandatory break between 11 am and 3 pm. The government has warned of strict action against violators.
Zero casualty approach
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed officials to prioritise public safety with a “zero casualty” strategy. To help citizens cope with the heat, he has banned power cuts between 11 am to 5 pm and 9 pm to 6 am.
Districts to call the shots
Local authorities now have full control to take emergency measures. District collectors can act immediately without waiting for approval.
Cooling centres & Water supply
Public rest stops with drinking water will be set up in busy areas. The Panchayati Raj Department has sanctioned ₹300 crore to install tube wells in areas facing water shortages. More funds will be allocated if needed.
Odisha’s heatwave hotspots
Temperatures are already hitting 40°C+ in many places. Bolangir recorded 41.1°C, making it the hottest in the state, followed by Titlagarh (40.5°C), Jharsuguda (40.8°C), and Sundargarh (40.1°C).
The government is closely monitoring the situation and may introduce more heatwave safety measures in the coming weeks.
