Bhubaneswar, 22 April (H.S.): The Government of Odisha has issued directives to ensure the safety and well-being of personnel engaged in the ongoing Census operations across the state. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, has written to all district collectors and municipal commissioners in this regard.

According to the official communication, the first phase of Census 2027—House Listing and Housing Census—commenced on April 16 and will continue until May 15, 2026. During this period, enumerators are conducting door-to-door surveys to collect data on housing conditions, household amenities, and assets.

The directive follows several concerning incidents reported from various districts. In Sonepur District, an enumerator reportedly died of a heart attack after returning from duty. In Mayurbhanj District, a female enumerator has been reported missing. Additionally, multiple cases of heatstroke and minor accidents have been reported in Balasore District, while another accident was reported from Rourkela.

In view of these incidents, the state government has instructed all Collector-cum-Principal Census Officers and Municipal Commissioners to take immediate steps to mitigate heatwave-related risks, identify potential hazards during fieldwork, and ensure regular monitoring of enumerators.

The communication also emphasizes the need to sensitize field staff about safety protocols and precautionary measures, aiming to safeguard their well-being while ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted conduct of Census operations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda