Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the Monsoon, the housing and urban development department has issued a comprehensive standard operating procedure (SOP) to all urban local bodies (ULBs), directing them to ensure full preparedness to tackle heavy rain, waterlogging and public health risks in towns and cities.The SOP makes it clear that officials will be held accountable for implementation and any lapse will be viewed seriously, a statement issued by the department on Tuesday reads. The department said the aim is to strengthen urban resilience and ensure citizen safety during the monsoon.As part of the directives, ULBs have been asked to carry out 100% verification of drainage systems, including manholes, to prevent accidents. Damaged or uncovered manholes must be repaired immediately, while warning signage and protective nets are to be installed wherever repairs are pending.Regular desilting of drains and removal of encroachments blocking natural water flow have been made mandatory to reduce flood risks. To address chronic waterlogging, low-lying zones have been identified for focused intervention. ULBs have been instructed to deploy adequate pump sets and DG sets in such areas for rapid dewatering.The SOP also focuses on disaster response and public health. Multi-purpose cyclone shelters, along with schools and colleges, will be kept ready as temporary relief centres with drinking water, sanitation and power supply. Special arrangements, including lady home guards, have been mandated to ensure safety of women, children and the elderly.Urban areas will be divided into operational zones, each placed under designated officers responsible for emergency response and field coordination during heavy rainfall. To curb the spread of waterborne diseases, ULBs have been directed to intensify fogging, apply larvicides regularly and strictly prevent water stagnation.Each ULB will set up a 24×7 control room to address civic complaints. Any monsoon-related road damage must be restored to motorable condition within 72 hours. Citizens have been urged to cooperate with the ward committees to keep drains clear and cities monsoon ready.
