Bhubaneswar civic body to set up temporary water kiosks for summer relief

Bhubaneswar: With summer peaking, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated the process to set up temporary Jal Seva Kendras, or drinking water kiosks, across the city.The civic body has invited applications from non-government organisations, societies and trusts to set up and operate these kiosks on a pro bono or voluntary basis without any charge till June 15.According to an Expression of Interest (EoI) issued by the BMC, selected agencies will be responsible for the establishment, operation and maintenance of the water kiosks during the peak summer period.“The initiative is aimed at ensuring easy access to safe drinking water at strategic public locations during extreme heat conditions.

We are encouraging credible organisations to come forward and support this public welfare effort,” mayor Sulochana Das said, adding the kiosk locations will be finalised on the basis of footfall and local requirements. “We will also decide on the number of water kiosks to be installed in the required locations,” Das said.The move has been welcomed by city residents. “These water kiosks will help daily commuters like us,” said Sunita Behera from Unit IV.

Street vendors and shopkeepers also see relief. “We work in open the whole day. If there is a reliable water kiosk nearby, it will prevent dehydration and health issues,” said Ramesh Sahoo, a fruit seller near Kalpana Square.Ankit Rout, a college student, said the initiative should cover crowded areas. “Places near markets, hospitals and traffic junctions should be prioritised,” he said.Notably, the housing and urban development department, while issuing a summer SOP, asked all the urban local bodies to take heat mitigation measures, including setting up temporary water kiosks.The department warned that the water kiosks should serve their purpose rather than being a showpiece. BMC officials said the civic body may allow capable agencies to operate kiosks at multiple locations, subject to approval.