As the intense cold wave persists across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and other parts of North India, residents are grappling with the harsh weather conditions.
The plummeting temperatures in Uttar Pradesh have led people to gather around bonfires, seeking warmth from the crackling flames to combat the bone-chilling cold. In the national capital, homeless individuals have sought refuge in government-operated night shelters.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Delhi witnessed its coldest day this winter on Tuesday, with the minimum temperature dropping to 5.3°C. Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, the minimum temperatures in Kanpur and Agra plummeted below freezing point, reaching 1.1 and 1.0°C, respectively.
The night shelters in Delhi play a crucial role in providing a haven for those living on the streets during the freezing weather. Equipped with blankets, beds, hot water, and food, these shelters aim to alleviate the hardships faced by the homeless population.
A caretaker from a night shelter in Delhi’s Anand Vihar highlighted the rescue efforts undertaken by their team, bringing people found lying on roadsides to the warmth of the shelter. “Our rescue team brings people found lying on the roads in the bitter cold,” said Mohit, a caretaker at the Anand Vihar night shelter.
Residents seeking refuge at the shelters expressed their gratitude for the amenities provided. A woman at the Anand Vihar night shelter commended the facilities, stating, “The amenities here are very good. I wish to express my gratitude to the Delhi government and (CM Arvind) Kejriwal-ji for taking good care of us.”
Despite the challenging weather conditions, these night shelters serve as a vital lifeline for those in need, offering not only physical comfort but also a sense of security amid the harsh winter.
