Heatwave – Delhi Shelter Homes Struggle With Failing Cooling Systems
Heatwave – As temperatures continue to rise across the national capital, several night shelters operated for homeless and low-income families in Delhi are facing serious challenges in preparing for the intense summer season. Although recent showers have offered temporary respite, many residents say the facilities meant to protect them from extreme heat remain inadequate.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Sanitation and Water Supply
At a shelter near Sarai Kale Khan, residents described unhygienic washrooms, irregular water supply, and broken taps as everyday problems. Eighteen-year-old Nazmi, who has been staying at the facility, said access to clean water becomes especially critical during peak summer months.
According to residents, water supply is available only for a limited period in the morning, forcing families to store enough water for the entire day. Several people were seen collecting water manually from exposed pipes located near waste piles behind the washroom area.
While the shelters appear equipped with cabins, beds, water filters, and cooling systems, many occupants claim the actual living conditions are far from satisfactory.
Cooling Units Failing During Peak Heat
Families staying at the shelter reported that several air coolers installed inside the porta-cabins are either malfunctioning or completely unusable. Residents said the motors responsible for circulating water through the cooling pads often stop working, causing the units to blow warm air instead.
Bappa, a daily wage worker who has been living at the shelter for years, pointed to one damaged cooler lying unused for a long time. He claimed no repair work had been carried out despite repeated complaints.
Another resident, Shilpa, said the water dispensers placed inside cabins are rarely refilled. Her family also noted that fewer coolers had been provided this year compared to the previous summer, despite large numbers of people sharing the same living space.
Residents questioned how two working coolers could adequately serve cabins housing dozens of people during severe heatwave conditions.
Similar Problems Reported At Other Shelters
Comparable conditions were observed at the shelter near Yamuna Bazaar, where labourers staying at the facility were seen collecting oral rehydration solution packets distributed by caretakers.
Although two coolers had reportedly been installed in one cabin, only one was functioning during the visit. Resident Asif said one of the newly delivered coolers stopped working within days of installation.
Shelter staff members acknowledged that ORS packets are being supplied regularly to help people deal with dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Representatives associated with non-governmental organisations managing the shelters said efforts are being made to ensure uninterrupted distribution during the summer period.
NGO Survey Highlights Infrastructure Gaps
A recent assessment conducted by the Delhi-based Centre for Holistic Development examined shelters in multiple parts of the city, including areas such as Jama Masjid, Bangla Sahib, and Mori Gate. The survey reportedly found that nearly half of the cooling systems, including fans and desert coolers, were not functioning properly.
Officials associated with the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board disputed the findings, describing the claims as exaggerated. However, residents and ground observations indicate that many of the same issues have continued over the years without major improvement.
With forecasts predicting prolonged heatwave conditions in Delhi this summer, concerns are growing over whether vulnerable residents living in temporary shelters will receive adequate protection from extreme temperatures.