Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation on Tuesday announced a series of heatwave measures, including rest sheds for sanitation workers in all wards and 120 temporary drinking water kiosks across the city, to provide relief to commuters, residents and frontline civic staff during the scorching summer.On Tuesday, BMC dedicated two attendance kiosks-cum-multipurpose rest sheds for sanitation workers. The sheds were inaugurated by Bhubaneswar Central MLA Ananta Narayan Jena in the presence of BMC mayor Sulochana Das.The civic body said the initiative was taken as temperatures continue to rise sharply, with roads in the city wearing a deserted look after noon as people avoid stepping out in the intense heat. The water kiosks will be set up to cater to every ward and help people stay hydrated while commuting or working outdoors.The attendance kiosks-cum-multipurpose rest sheds for sanitation workers across various wards is aimed at creating a designated point for attendance, coordination with supervisors and short rest breaks, while also ensuring protection from harsh weather conditions. BMC officials said initially, the rest sheds were introduced in two wards on a pilot basis.Das said sanitation workers report daily at designated points for attendance and coordination, but often lack a secure and sheltered place. With this in mind, BMC piloted the concept of a multipurpose rest shed to improve their working conditions.Officials said the sheds are intended to improve the welfare, comfort and operational efficiency of sanitation workers engaged in essential civic services. The structures will serve as agglomeration points and provide basic amenities during summer and prevailing heatwave conditions.Besides the rest sheds, the civic body has decided to install drinking water kiosks at key public locations for residents and passersby. Water pots will also be placed in different areas for stray animals.BMC deputy commissioner Ratnakar Sahoo said the measures are meant to provide immediate relief during extreme heat, especially for commuters, street vendors, homeless persons and other vulnerable groups who spend long hours outdoors.The BMC has also activated its 24×7 control room to coordinate heatwave response and provide emergency assistance. In a parallel step, Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited has reactivated the toll-free number 1929 to receive heat-related complaints and requests for help.
