As temperatures continue to drop across the Kolhan division, municipal authorities in Jamshedpur have launched an extensive winter protection program to safeguard homeless and destitute individuals from cold-related hazards. Three key municipal bodies—Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC), Mango Notified Area Committee (MNAC), and Jugsalai Municipal Council (JMC)—have coordinated efforts to provide immediate relief through shelter homes and warming facilities.
Emergency Warming Facilities Activated
Jugsalai Municipal Council has taken proactive measures by establishing bonfire facilities at five strategic locations throughout the city. According to JMC executive officer Sandip Paswan, these warming centers are operational at Tatanagar railway station chowk, Gaushala chowk, Veer Kunwar Singh chowk, Naya bazar, and the railway level crossing chowk. The municipal body is also preparing to open five shelter homes, each equipped with ten beds to accommodate those needing overnight protection from the harsh winter conditions.
Comprehensive Survey and Rescue Operations
JNAC deputy municipal commissioner Krishna Kumar confirmed that directions have been issued to conduct thorough surveys of public spaces to identify and relocate homeless individuals to shelter facilities. The rescue initiative will focus on multiple high-priority areas including the long-distance bus terminus in Bhuyadih, MGM medical college footpath, Devnagar, Old court, Sakchi roundabout, Bistupur fish market area, Tatanagar railway station, Tinplate chowk, Sidhgora market, Kadma marine drive lane, and temple vicinities.
Currently, JNAC manages six shelter homes within its command area, comprising three facilities for men, one for women, and two dedicated to families. The combined bed capacity across these shelters stands at 163, with officials actively reviewing accommodation facilities to address any inadequacies in the current system.
Expanded Shelter Capacity Across Municipalities
MNAC has established a temporary 20-bed shelter home at Kaushal Vikas Center in Pardih on NH-33, which is being equipped with proper accommodation amenities according to city manager Nirmal Kumar. The municipality also maintains two permanent shelter homes: a 15-bed facility at Kumrum Basti exclusively for women and a 50-bed home at Daigutu for men.
Survey teams conducted extensive inspections on Wednesday and Thursday, visiting various locations to rescue homeless individuals. Interestingly, officials reported that during these initial surveys, they did not encounter anyone sleeping in open areas, suggesting that early intervention measures might already be having a positive effect or that homeless populations have sought alternative arrangements.
The coordinated municipal response demonstrates a comprehensive approach to winter emergency management, combining immediate warming solutions with structured shelter accommodations to protect vulnerable populations during the coldest months of the year.
