Patna: Patna Municipal Corporation will focus on heaters and blowers instead of open bonfires at shelter homes this winter as part of efforts to protect vulnerable people from the cold while reducing local air pollution.
The civic body is also planning to make existing air-conditioned lounges for gig workers suitable for winter use. The number of such lounges could also be increased depending on requirements.
Study Links Bonfires To Higher PM2.5
The decision follows a study conducted by the municipal corporation in collaboration with the Air Pollution Action Group (A-PAG), titled Beyond the Bonfires: Rethinking Winter Heating for Vulnerable Populations of Patna.
The study covered homeless people, street vendors, night-shift workers, commuters and people living in settlements. Researchers also assessed shelter homes, slum areas and bus stands.
According to the study, open bonfires can increase PM2.5 levels in surrounding areas by around 18% to 30%. The report noted that increased exposure to air pollution can have adverse health implications, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Based on the findings, the civic body is considering better indoor heating arrangements at shelter homes to reduce dependence on open fires.
955 Beds Across Shelter Facilities
Patna Municipal Corporation has 18 shelter facilities in its area. Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena said these include six permanent shelter homes, 12 German-hangar structures and tents at eight locations.
During winter, around 955 beds are available across these facilities for people in need. The shelters provide basic amenities including drinking water, toilets, bedding and blankets.
The corporation plans to increase the number of heaters and blowers this winter so that people staying at the shelters can get adequate warmth without the need for open bonfires.
Gig Worker Lounges To Be Winter-Ready
Patna currently has air-conditioned lounges for gig workers at two locations. The municipal corporation is working on making these facilities suitable for winter as well.
The civic body is also considering additional lounges based on demand. Providing safe and comfortable spaces for gig workers could help reduce the need for workers to rely on open fires while waiting for or completing work during colder hours.
Cleaner Winter Heating In Focus
The winter plan comes as Patna has improved its position in the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026. The city ranked 16th in the latest assessment, compared with 27th the previous year.
The municipal corporation is now considering measures that can provide protection from cold while limiting activities that contribute to local air pollution. Increasing heating facilities at shelters and making gig-worker lounges winter-ready are among the measures being planned.
