NEW DELHI: The Delhi Government has finalised an extensive Winter Action Plan aimed at protecting homeless individuals and other vulnerable groups as the city braces for falling temperatures. During a review meeting held at the Delhi Secretariat earlier this week, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta instructed officials to ensure that no resident is left to face the harsh winter weather without adequate support.
Officials reported that Delhi currently operates 197 permanent night shelters with a total capacity of around 18,000 people. Out of the 250 temporary shelters proposed across the capital, 204 have already been established and furnished with essential provisions. All permanent and temporary night shelters are now functional and will continue to be monitored closely until 15 March to ensure seamless service.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of equipping shelters thoroughly to guarantee dignity and safety for all residents. Each facility has been stocked with beds, mattresses, sheets, pillows, blankets, electricity, mosquito-control devices, water coolers, CCTV cameras, and dedicated security arrangements for women. Reaffirming her administration’s commitment, she stated, “No citizen should ever be forced to sleep under the open sky during the cold winter months. These night shelters represent not just infrastructure, but dignity and security”. Officials further updated her that the ‘Rain Basera’ mobile app continues to operate efficiently, offering real-time information to help homeless individuals locate available shelter options.
The Winter Action Plan this year also broadens its coverage to include additional vulnerable sections of society. Gupta instructed the Health Department to ensure that hospitals maintain an adequate supply of blankets and winter protection materials for patients. She also directed various departments to explore measures to shield schoolchildren from the cold, including implementing suitable initiatives through CSR collaborations.
Preparations have also been strengthened at Anganwadi and childcare centres, which have been instructed to enhance their winter-readiness. Furthermore, Gupta has mandated that security personnel posted at government offices be provided with heaters and other essential protective equipment to safeguard them during winter duty hours.
Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma, along with senior representatives from several departments, attended the review meeting and assured the Chief Minister that sufficient arrangements have already been made for homeless citizens and economically weaker communities. With all shelters fully prepared and additional safety measures in place, the Delhi Government maintains that it remains deeply committed to ensuring maximum winter protection for the city’s most vulnerable residents throughout the season.
