Odisha Imposes Midday Work Ban to Prevent Heatstroke Amid Rising Summer Temperatures

Bhubaneswar: Anticipating an intense summer and a heightened risk of heatstroke, the Odisha Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Department has announced a statewide restriction on outdoor work during peak daytime hours from April 1 to June 15, 2026.

In an official advisory issued to all Revenue Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, and the State Labour Commissioner, the department has prohibited engagement of workers in outdoor activities between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM during the specified period. The move is aimed at protecting labourers from the harmful effects of extreme heat and severe solar radiation expected in the coming months.

The directive will be applicable to all state government departments, central government offices operating in Odisha, as well as private employers, commercial and industrial establishments, shop owners, and contractors. Authorities have been instructed to reschedule working hours to ensure strict adherence to the midday work restriction.

However, in cases involving essential services or urgent work where suspension is not feasible, employers have been directed to implement mandatory safety measures. These include providing adequate shade, ensuring the supply of cool drinking water, distributing ORS packets, and arranging access to medical facilities for workers exposed to high temperatures.

Healthcare authorities across the state have also been placed on alert. Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs), Sub-Divisional Medical Officers (SDMOs), and medical staff at Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Employees’ State Insurance hospitals have been instructed to remain vigilant and prepared to handle heat-related illnesses.

The proactive measure comes amid forecasts of intensifying heatwave conditions, with the state government focusing on minimizing health risks and preventing heatstroke-related incidents among vulnerable outdoor workers.