The Municipal Corporation of Panchkula has initiated the establishment of night shelters to provide protection to individuals sleeping on sidewalks and in open spaces during cold weather.
These shelters are operational at three key locations within the city, including two at Bus Stand Sector 5, two at Majri Chowk, and one near Mansa Devi Temple on Common Park Saketdi Road. Panchkula Mayor Kulbhushan Goyal mentioned that these shelters aim to assist the poor during the winter season, offering them a place to spend the night.
Each night shelter is equipped with security personnel, and basic amenities such as electricity, beds, blankets, and quilts are provided. In the event of a further drop in temperatures, arrangements for heaters will also be made. The strategic placement of these shelters caters to areas with significant nighttime footfall, making them accessible for travelers as well. According to Kulbhushan Goyal, while the municipal area typically requires no more than 10 night shelters, the current initiative has started with five.
The night shelters operate on a non-payment basis, but individuals are required to provide ID proof for entry, duly recorded by the shelter’s personnel.