Bhubaneswar: In view of the low-pressure area over northwest and adjoining West Bengal–North Odisha coastal areas, Housing and Urban Development Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee directed all urban authorities to remain on high alert and ensure a prompt, coordinated and citizen-centric response to any emerging situation.
The ACS directed officials to keep all personnel, machinery and equipment in full readiness and ensure that Rapid Response Teams remain active in the field.
She emphasised that all issues reported from the field must be addressed immediately and on priority, with particular focus on minimising inconvenience to citizens.
As part of efforts to strengthen public confidence, Padhee also directed urban authorities to proactively communicate their preparedness and field-level actions through regular press briefings and social media updates.
The department is to be kept regularly informed of the prevailing situation and the response measures being undertaken.
She further directed urban authorities to seek necessary assistance from the department and the district administration, wherever required, and maintain close coordination among all concerned agencies to ensure an effective and timely ground-level response.
The directions come as the state remains vigilant in view of the prevailing weather system, with urban authorities being advised to ensure preparedness and swift action to safeguard public safety and minimise disruption to civic services.
