Bhubaneswar, August 16: In view of the low-pressure area over northwest and adjoining West Bengal–North Odisha coasts, Additional Chief Secretary (Housing & Urban Development Department) Usha Padhee has directed all urban authorities to remain on high alert and ensure prompt, coordinated and citizen-centric response to any emerging situation.The low-pressure area has formed over the over northwest Bay of Bengal northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Odisha-West Bengal coasts, a development expected to trigger widespread heavy rainfall in Odisha.The system is likely to move nearly northwestwards and become more marked during next 24 hours.She 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 any issue reported from the field should be addressed immediately and on priority, with particular focus on minimising inconvenience to citizens.As a confidence-building measure, Padhee also directed urban authorities to proactively communicate their preparedness and field actions through regular press briefs and social media updates.She directed that the Housing & Urban Development Department be kept informed of the situation and actions being taken.She further directed the authorities to take necessary assistance from the Department and District Administration wherever required and ensure close inter-agency coordination for effective ground-level response.The latest weather system comes amid the ongoing southwest monsoon season, when low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal can influence rainfall and wind conditions across coastal and adjoining parts of eastern India.
Low-Pressure Area: Padhee directs urban authorities to stay alert, ensure rapid response
