​​​​​​​Bhubaneswar, November 3: The Odisha Government has launched an intensive post-cyclone sanitation drive in Gajapati, Ganjam and Kandhamal districts to prevent the spread of vector-borne and waterborne diseases in affected areas.

In a communication to the respective Zilla Parishad authorities, Commissioner-cum-Secretary Girish S. N. directed officials to take immediate steps to clear debris, clean clogged drains, remove stagnant water and disinfect public spaces.

Sanitation workers, youth groups and NGOs will be mobilised for the campaign, which will cover villages, markets, schools, Anganwadi centres and community toilets.

Gram Panchayats have been authorised to use available Finance Commission grants and other permissible funds to carry out the work.

The Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department has marked the assignment as“Most Urgent”, with state headquarters instructed to monitor progress on a daily basis to ensure timely restoration of hygienic conditions in cyclone-affected areas.