Bhubaneswar, Apr 29 (UNI) In light of the ongoing heatwave season, the Odisha Government has instructed officials across all 30 districts to ensure the readiness of medical facilities, with sufficient beds allocated for heatwave-related cases.

The department has also expanded its training programs for healthcare workers, focusing on the management of heat-related illnesses.

The Health and Family Welfare Department has reinforced its strategies to protect public health amid rising temperatures.

Under the direction of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, a review meeting was Chaired by the Director of Public Health (DPH), Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, on Tuesday, to assess and streamline the operational and logistical measures required to safeguard the people of Odisha during the heatwave.

Dr. Mishra emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to managing the public health impact of extreme heat.

He highlighted that the department is working to ensure the availability of essential medical supplies such as intravenous fluids, Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), medicines, air coolers, and power backup systems to mitigate the effects of the heatwave.

Special attention has been given to mining regions and areas prone to extreme heat, where vulnerable populations will be provided with additional resources and protection.

The department has prioritized equipping these communities to effectively cope with severe weather conditions.

“We are well-prepared to handle the challenges of the upcoming heatwave season,” Dr. Mishra said, adding that all necessary infrastructure and resources are in place to minimize the impact of extreme heat.

UNI DP CS