The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has set up 235 tents at the pagoda to provide shelter to the homeless during the cold winter nights, according to officials.
According to the Delhi Government’s winter 2024-25 plan unveiled on November 15, 250 tents will be constructed. The remaining 15 tents are reserved for emergencies.
“Each tent is equipped with essential items such as mattresses, blankets, toilets, and health check kits, as well as three meals a day,” the official said.
For people living in permanent shelters, additional facilities such as hot water geysers are being provided to ensure a more comfortable stay during the colder months, he added.
Delhi recorded its coldest night of the season, when the mercury dropped to 7.1 degrees Celsius.
On Sunday (December 8, 2024), the city recorded a low of 8 degrees Celsius with rain forecast during the day, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The Delhi government launched its winter action plan on November 15 to address the needs of the homeless.
DUSIB already operates 197 shelters across the city with a capacity of 7,092 people. With more tents, the capacity will increase further, said the official.
“The government has earmarked ₹ 3 crore to implement this program from November 15, 2023, to March 15, 2025,” he said.
As part of this program, 16 rescue teams were formed in collaboration with Social Mobilization Agencies and NGOs. “These teams will work every day from 10 pm to 4 am, rescuing people found sleeping in open spaces or on the roads,” explained the official.
Each team will be equipped with a vehicle, a driver, and two guards to transport the rescued people to nearby shelters or hospitals, if needed.
A central room has been established to oversee rescue operations and coordinate information through the helpline, mobile app, and other sources, the official said.
People can also alert authorities about homeless people by uploading photos to the ‘Rain Basera’ mobile app which will help track their location via GPS for immediate assistance.
“Campaigns have also been carried out to raise awareness among the public about the existing shelters and rescue facilities,” said the official.
DUSIB is partnering with community agencies to ensure that basic services such as drinking water, electricity, and sanitation are available in all shelters. Additional amenities such as television, hot water, blankets and personal lockers are also provided.
Repair and maintenance of existing shelters is a priority to ensure they remain in good condition throughout the winter.
“The Joint Apex Advisory Committee (JAAC), led by the CEO of DUSIB, coordinates the efforts of various departments, including health, municipal organizations and the police, to ensure that this program works well,” said the official.
Published – December 08, 2024 05:03 pm IST