Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling announced specific measures aimed at protecting pregnant women and improving the emergency medical response as floodwaters impact various regions in Odisha.

The minister stressed the importance of taking proactive measures to evacuate expectant mothers to safer locations and ensure their quick transfer to hospitals, while also preparing for an anticipated increase in snakebite incidents during the monsoon floods.

Mahaling pointed out that relocating pregnant women poses significant operational challenges for health teams during flooding events. He stated, “Key challenges during floods include moving pregnant women to safe locations and transporting them to hospitals. Snakebite incidents also increase during floods. A review committee, led by the Principal Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, has been established to address these issues. Chief District Medical Officers and District Magistrates have been directed to closely monitor the flood situation and promptly provide emergency assistance, medical care, and essential supplies…”

Additionally, he mentioned that ASHA workers are actively engaged on the ground to locate women in advanced stages of pregnancy, assist in relocating them to secure areas, and facilitate transportation to maternity wards. “These initiatives are currently underway in three districts, with plans to expand to a fourth district depending on the evolving flood situation,” he noted.

Earlier, Health Secretary Aswathy S conducted a review of emergency preparedness in flood-affected regions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stockpiles of anti-snake venom, essential medications, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS), as well as focused care for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly. She also highlighted the need to relocate expectant mothers who are close to delivery to appropriate facilities when necessary, ensuring ambulance support in isolated areas.

In related news, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari reported that the overall flood situation is being managed effectively, with improvements noted in the most severely affected districts and the establishment of free kitchens to assist those impacted by the disaster.