Patna: Patna Municipal Corporation’s night shelters are becoming a vital support system for the homeless and other vulnerable groups during the cold wave. A total of 29 shelters, including 12 German hangars, 6 permanent, and 11 temporary shelters, have been set up across the city. These facilities have provided shelter to 16,233 people as of January 2, offering free beds, blankets, and night meals. Bonfires have also been arranged near these shelters to help those exposed to the biting cold.
To ensure cleanliness and security, all shelters are equipped with CCTV cameras, and monitoring is conducted round the clock. The night shelters have a capacity of 907 beds, which are filling up almost daily. These shelters have been strategically located near public places such as railway stations, bus stands, and markets, ensuring easy access for those in need. Additionally, each shelter provides essential amenities like drinking water, mosquito nets, fire safety equipment, and clean toilets.
Efforts are also being made to encourage people sleeping in the open to use these shelters. Outreach workers from the Social Welfare Department are mobilizing the homeless, guiding them to permanent, temporary, and German hangar shelters to ensure they are not left exposed to the harsh winter.
The Municipal Corporation has ensured that each shelter is adequately staffed and that emergency contact numbers are readily available for swift action. These shelters provide much-needed relief not only to the homeless but also to students and travelers seeking refuge during the cold nights.
