Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the 12-hour statewide bandh called by the Congress-led INDIA bloc in Odisha on Thursday, the state government on Wednesday put all District Collectors and Magistrates on alert to prevent any law-and-order situation.

The Home (Special Branch) Department wrote to the Collectors and District Magistrates in thrs regard. The letter asked them to take preventive and precautionary security measures to maintain law and order. It also asked them to remain alert against any untoward incident during the general strike on October 8.

The authorities were directed to make requisite arrangements for the smooth functioning of Central and state government offices across Odisha. Priority was also given to maintaining essential services during the shutdown.

Special SOP issued

In addition, the Odisha Home (Special Branch) Department issued a special Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) regarding security arrangements and the attendance of state government employees.

As part of the security measures, all officers and employees of Lok Seva Bhavan, Kharavela Bhavan, Rajiv Bhavan, Krushi Bhavan and major Heads of Department buildings have been advised to reach their offices by 9.30 a.m.

The front gate of Lok Seva Bhavan will be closed at 10.15 a.m., after which entry will be regulated only through the rear gate. The connecting gate between the Red Building and the main Lok Seva Bhavan will remain open.

Strict verification of identity cards and office passes will be carried out. Vehicles without valid car passes will not be allowed to enter the premises.

Entry of general visitors will remain strictly restricted during the bandh. Gate passes will be issued only in cases involving urgent work and prior appointments, subject to the recommendation of the Special Secretary of the Home Department.

Employees have also been instructed to avoid unnecessary movement within the office premises and remain at their designated seats while carrying out their duties.

The department has advised officials to contact the OSD-cum-Additional Secretary of the Home Department at 7008053903 or the Additional DCP, Secretariat Security, at 0674-2322522 in case of any untoward incident or for urgent information.

The security measures have been put in place in view of possible disruptions at key government establishments during the strike.