Bhubaneswar, Jul 1: With monsoon rains continuing across Odisha and the risk of waterlogging in urban areas increasing, the state government has directed all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to remain on high alert, officials said on Wednesday.

The Housing and Urban Development Department has issued instructions to all Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Notified Area Councils (NACs) to ensure preparedness against rain-induced disruptions, they added.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra has urged officials and ULBs to stay fully equipped to tackle any emergency situation arising from heavy rainfall. He emphasised that citizen safety and uninterrupted civic services remain the government’s top priority during the monsoon season.

Following the Minister’s directive, the department circulated an advisory to all ULBs, asking them to take preventive measures in identified hotspots and low-lying areas prone to waterlogging. The advisory stressed round-the-clock monitoring, activation of rapid action teams, and ensuring the functionality of pumps and de-watering equipment. Strict vigilance over drainage systems has also been mandated.

Municipal officers, engineers, and sanitation staff have been instructed to intensify field inspections and respond promptly to incidents such as water accumulation, blocked drains, and uprooted trees. Coordination with district administrations, disaster management authorities, and other departments has been emphasised to enable swift and effective action.

To address public grievances, the urban complaint helpline ‘Sahara Sathi-1929’ has been activated. Citizens can report waterlogging, drainage issues, or other civic problems through the helpline, which will ensure immediate redressal.

Officials said that the Housing and Urban Development Department is closely monitoring the rain situation across the state. They assured that all necessary support will be extended to safeguard residents and maintain essential services during the ongoing monsoon.