Ahmedabad: As temperatures continue to soar, the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is providing shelter and essential facilities to homeless people through its network of 35 shelter homes across the city. Currently, around 80 per cent occupancy has been recorded across these shelters, officials said on Friday.

The Urban Community Development (UCD) department of AMC operates shelter homes throughout the year to provide accommodation for homeless people during all seasons. During the ongoing summer heatwave, the civic body has intensified measures to ensure the well-being of residents staying at these shelters.

According to AMC, the 35 shelter homes operating in the city have a combined capacity of 4,315 people. Of these, 33 function as day shelters while two provide night shelter facilities. Presently, nearly 80 per cent occupancy is being recorded across all shelter homes.

To help residents cope with the extreme heat, AMC is ensuring proper food arrangements and distributing Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets to protect them from dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Special efforts have also been made to keep shelter residents hydrated and maintain a regular and nutritious diet.

As part of healthcare initiatives for the homeless, AMC regularly organises medical camps at shelter homes where general health check-ups of residents are conducted.

In a step towards rehabilitation and livelihood support, an “Employment Generation” programme was organised on May 21 under the DAY-NULM project at the Vasna Shelter Home, managed by AMC and operated by Maa Astha Social Development Service Organization. Under the initiative, employment opportunities were provided to 11 residents of the West Zone’s Vasna Shelter Home.

The UCD department also conducts night drives to identify and relocate homeless individuals. During a recent drive that continued until midnight, 53 people were shifted to the Vasna Shelter Home.

AMC is also carrying out anti-begging drives in coordination with the Social Security Department and Police Department. Officials said the initiatives are aimed at the welfare, rehabilitation and upliftment of homeless people in the city. DeshGujarat