New Delhi: With temperatures soaring and a relentless heatwave gripping the national capital, the Delhi government has initiated a comprehensive rescue operation to evacuate homeless individuals from footpaths, parks, and open spaces to designated shelter homes.
An official directive issued to the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) underscores the urgency of addressing the extreme summer conditions through proactive measures outlined in the heatwave action plan. The initiative aims to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations during this critical period.
According to the directive, the rescue drive will operate daily from 12 pm to 12 am, targeting areas across Delhi where homeless people are known to seek refuge outdoors. Shelter management agencies (SMAs) have been tasked with forming dedicated rescue teams within their respective jurisdictions or clusters to execute the operation effectively.
“All SMAs are instructed to commence the rescue drive immediately, ensuring homeless individuals are provided suitable accommodation in DUSIB’s shelter homes,” the directive stated. It further mandates that a detailed report of each day’s rescue activities must be submitted by 11 am the following day to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the operation.
In addition to shelter provisions, the directive emphasizes the importance of offering prompt medical assistance to individuals experiencing distress due to the heat. Centralized Accident and Trauma Services (CATS) ambulances are authorized for transporting sick individuals to hospitals as needed.
The directive underscores the government’s commitment to humanitarian efforts amidst challenging weather conditions, prioritizing public health and safety. Any lapses in compliance with the rescue drive protocols will be treated seriously, reinforcing the accountability and urgency attached to the operation.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to mitigate the impact of heatwaves on vulnerable populations, reflecting proactive governance aimed at safeguarding the welfare of all residents during periods of environmental stress.
