Delhi Increases Shelter Homes to Protect Homeless from Severe Cold, Reema Gupta Government Takes Major Initiative

New Delhi: In a decisive step to shield the homeless from Delhi’s biting winter, the government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Reema Gupta, has expanded the city’s shelter home network and intensified rescue operations. Temporary and permanent shelters are now providing safe refuge, food, and hygiene facilities to ensure that no individual is forced to endure the harsh cold.

Enhanced Shelter Facilities Near Hospitals

Following the Chief Minister’s directives, authorities have focused on areas around AIIMS, Safdarjung, and G.B. Pant hospitals, where a high number of homeless individuals typically gather. The number of shelters in these zones has been increased to ensure adequate capacity. The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), along with shelter management agencies, continues to rescue people from open spaces and relocate them to safe facilities. Shelters provide beds, three meals a day, clean drinking water, and sanitation facilities, all free of charge.

Temporary ‘Pagoda’ Shelters and Permanent Facilities

Under the Winter Action Plan 2025-26, the government has set up approximately 250 temporary ‘Pagoda’ shelters in sensitive, high-traffic areas of the capital. Alongside, DUSIB is operating 197 permanent shelters across Delhi, offering all essential amenities.

In the AIIMS-Safdarjung area, the capacity has been increased from 320 beds across 32 Pagoda shelters to 350 beds with the addition of three new temporary shelters. Furthermore, temporary refuge points have been set up in subway areas to accommodate those sleeping outdoors. During a special rescue drive, approximately 75 homeless individuals were relocated to shelters, clearing open spaces in the vicinity.

Near G.B. Pant Hospital, eight temporary Pagoda shelters have been established, providing accommodation for 80 people. Shelter management agencies conduct regular inspections from 10 PM to 4 AM to ensure timely relocation of those in unsafe conditions. A central control room operates round-the-clock to monitor and coordinate rescue operations.

Commitment to Safety and Humanitarian Care

Chief Minister Reema Gupta emphasized that the government’s efforts go beyond merely providing shelter. The administration has activated city-wide alert and rescue mechanisms, ensuring that the safety, dignity, and welfare of homeless citizens remain a top priority. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making certain that no individual in the capital remains vulnerable or unprotected, especially during the harsh winter months.