Daltonganj's Unused Shelter Home Puzzles Officials in Winter Chill
A two-story shelter home stands near Daltonganj railway station. The Medininagar Municipal Corporation built this facility to help people escape the cold nights. They named it Ashray Grih. Yet, most beds remain empty even during freezing weather.
Low Occupancy Despite Biting Cold
Binay Ram serves as the caretaker. He works as a daily wager for the municipal corporation. Ram reports the shelter has fifty beds available. Nightly occupancy fluctuates between five and ten people. This low usage persists despite two weeks of severe cold.
"We once brought about a dozen pavement sleepers here," Ram explained. "Senior officials instructed us to do this. But these individuals left their beds after midnight. They returned to their usual sleeping spots on the streets."
Railway Officials Encounter Resistance
Umesh Kumar holds the position of railway station superintendent. He often sees passengers waiting overnight on platforms due to delayed trains. Kumar and his staff suggest these travelers use the nearby shelter home. However, no one accepts the offer.
"We ask them to move to the shelter, but none comply," Kumar stated simply.
Free Amenities Fail to Attract
City Commissioner Md Jawed Hussain detailed the shelter's offerings. The facility provides a completely free stay. Guests receive a bed, a blanket, and access to drinking water. Washrooms are available, and security measures ensure safety.
Despite these amenities, homeless individuals show little interest. One woman vendor sleeping on the platform recently shared her view.
"We prefer the platform," she said. "The night passes comfortably there."
A Persistent Challenge for Authorities
The situation highlights a clear disconnect. Municipal authorities established a resource to address a genuine need. They allocated space, beds, and basic comforts. Yet, the intended beneficiaries consistently choose their familiar outdoor locations.
This pattern raises questions about outreach and the specific needs of Daltonganj's homeless population. The shelter home remains operational, its doors open, waiting for more people to walk through them.
