Odisha Govt Heatwave Advisory, Bars Outdoor Work Between 11 AM and 3 PM

 Bureau,Odishabart

Bhubaneswar,( 23/03/26): With temperatures set to climb sharply in April, the Odisha government on Monday rolled out a series of heat wave safety measures to protect workers across the state during the peak summer period.

In an advisory issued by the Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Department, authorities have been asked to take proactive steps to prevent heatstroke and related illnesses.

The guidelines, applicable from April 1 to June 15, 2026, have been sent to Revenue Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors and the State Labour Commissioner.

Employers across government offices, central establishments, private firms, industries, commercial units and contractors have been directed to avoid engaging workers in outdoor work between 11 AM and 3 PM, when heat exposure is at its highest. They have also been advised to reschedule working hours accordingly.

For essential services and emergency duties where work during these hours cannot be avoided, strict safeguards have been mandated. These include access to safe drinking water, shaded rest spaces, medical assistance and provision of ORS packets

The state has also put its healthcare system on alert. Chief District Medical Officers, Sub-Divisional Medical Officers and staff at PHCs, CHCs and ESI hospitals have been instructed to stay prepared to manage heat-related cases.

# agencies