Odisha Census 2026 / Census Workers Face Risks: Odisha Govt Issues Strict Safety Orders
·3 months ago·2 min read
Key Points
Disturbing incidents during the ongoing Census 2026 in Odisha - including a heart attack death, a missing worker, and multiple heatstroke cases - have prompted the state government to issue strict safety directives. District administrations have been ordered to adopt comprehensive measures to protect enumerators and ensure smooth completion of the census exercise.
Bhubaneswar, Apr 22: The Odisha government has issued strict directives to ensure the safety of census workers after several distressing incidents were reported during the ongoing first phase of the Census 2026 (House-listing and Housing Census). The exercise, which began on April 16 and will continue until May 15, has already witnessed tragic and alarming events across different districts, raising serious concerns about worker safety.
In Sonepur district, a census enumerator reportedly died of a heart attack after returning from duty, according to his family’s complaint. In Mayurbhanj, a female enumerator has gone missing, sparking worry among officials and locals. Balasore has reported three cases linked to accidents and heatstroke, while Rourkela has seen one accident involving census staff. These incidents highlight the risks faced by workers who are exposed to extreme summer conditions and other hazards while performing their duties.
Taking note of these developments, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department has issued urgent instructions to all District Collectors and Municipal Commissioners. Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Aravind Kumar Padhee has directed district administrations to adopt comprehensive safety measures. Special emphasis has been placed on tackling heatwave-related issues, identifying potential risks during fieldwork, and ensuring regular tracking of enumerators.
Also Read: School Holidays Extended Due to Heatwave, All Institutions in Sundargarh and Balangir Closed Till April 27
The government has also advised that all census workers be sensitized about safety protocols. Awareness campaigns are to be conducted so that enumerators remain cautious while collecting data in the field. The instructions stress that timely precautions will not only safeguard the workforce but also ensure that the census data collection is completed accurately and within schedule.
Officials believe these measures will strengthen the sense of security among census staff, enabling them to carry out their responsibilities without fear. With temperatures soaring and fieldwork continuing across the state, the government’s intervention is expected to provide much-needed reassurance to thousands of workers engaged in this crucial national exercise.
In Sonepur district, a census enumerator reportedly died of a heart attack after returning from duty, according to his family’s complaint. In Mayurbhanj, a female enumerator has gone missing, sparking worry among officials and locals. Balasore has reported three cases linked to accidents and heatstroke, while Rourkela has seen one accident involving census staff. These incidents highlight the risks faced by workers who are exposed to extreme summer conditions and other hazards while performing their duties.
Taking note of these developments, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department has issued urgent instructions to all District Collectors and Municipal Commissioners. Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Aravind Kumar Padhee has directed district administrations to adopt comprehensive safety measures. Special emphasis has been placed on tackling heatwave-related issues, identifying potential risks during fieldwork, and ensuring regular tracking of enumerators.
Also Read: School Holidays Extended Due to Heatwave, All Institutions in Sundargarh and Balangir Closed Till April 27
The government has also advised that all census workers be sensitized about safety protocols. Awareness campaigns are to be conducted so that enumerators remain cautious while collecting data in the field. The instructions stress that timely precautions will not only safeguard the workforce but also ensure that the census data collection is completed accurately and within schedule.
Officials believe these measures will strengthen the sense of security among census staff, enabling them to carry out their responsibilities without fear. With temperatures soaring and fieldwork continuing across the state, the government’s intervention is expected to provide much-needed reassurance to thousands of workers engaged in this crucial national exercise.
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