Odisha Prepares Heatwave Action Plan for NH-49, Focus on Safety

Bhubaneswar, Apr 18 : The Odisha government has drawn up a comprehensive heatwave action plan for National Highway-49, prioritising the safety of passengers and transport workers amid rising temperatures.

The roadmap was finalised during a high-level virtual coordination meeting chaired by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Saturday. He directed officials to implement targeted measures in Jharsuguda district of Odisha and adjoining Raigarh district in Chhattisgarh.

Highlighting NH-49 as a critical and busy transport corridor, the Minister stressed that preventing heat-related casualties is a top priority for the administration and police. He called for a dedicated action plan, including the construction of temporary shelters along the highway, particularly for use after 11 AM when temperatures peak.

Authorities have been instructed to install Sintex water tanks and ensure safe drinking water availability at key locations, especially near the Govindpur Toll Plaza. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including district collectors and representatives from transport and industrial sectors.

Officials informed that precautionary steps are already underway. The Jharsuguda administration has intensified monitoring in heatwave-prone areas, while Raigarh authorities are focusing on driver awareness campaigns and creating safety corridors. Plans are also in place to install awareness signboards at strategic points with support from the National Highways Authority of India and the Public Works Department.

Among the key measures announced, movement of non-air-conditioned transport vehicles will be restricted between 11 AM and 3 PM during April and May. Labourers will also be barred from working in open areas during peak heat hours.

Transport operators have been advised to equip vehicle cabins with air-conditioning, while petrol pumps and key points along the highway will set up water distribution centres and hydration kiosks. A mobile water kiosk will also be deployed near Govindpur Toll Plaza.

Additionally, industries and transport agencies have been directed to provide shade, drinking water, restrooms, and first-aid facilities at truck parking zones. Emergency measures such as water sprinkling on roads and deployment of ambulances at strategic locations have also been planned.

The action plan further includes setting up water troughs for animals and exploring the possibility of linking vehicle insurance with life insurance coverage for drivers, in consultation with the Transport Commissioner.

The meeting underscored the need for strong inter-departmental coordination to effectively manage the heatwave and safeguard lives along the crucial highway corridor.