Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: Although Cyclone Montha is not expected to have a direct impact on Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall across several parts of the state. In view of this, the Directorate of Public Health has taken precautionary measures to prevent possible water-related issues.

Public Health Director Dr. Nilakantha Mishra stated that all districts have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of safe drinking water. Hospitals across the state have also been asked to ensure sufficient water availability for patients and staff. “Our teams are fully prepared to tackle any water-related problems that may arise due to the rains,” Dr. Mishra said.

The department has also urged the public to drink only purified or boiled water. Adequate stocks of anti-diarrhoeal medivines have been supplied to all health facilities as a preventive measure against possible water-borne diseases.

“All necessary arrangements, including the provision of halogen tablets and facilities for sterilizing water, have been made for all districts, particularly in southern Odisha,” the Public Health Director added.

Authorities have reassured citizens that the state’s health infrastructure is on alert to handle any emergency situation resulting from the predicted heavy rainfall.