In a heartening start to the New Year, the Sirsa district administration launched a special late-night drive to provide relief to the most vulnerable citizens as temperatures plummeted across the region. Senior officials were seen on the streets personally distributing blankets and warm clothing to the homeless and those sleeping in the open.
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The Initiative: Led by the District Magistrate/Deputy Commissioner and accompanied by Red Cross volunteers, the teams visited key areas including the Sirsa Railway Station, Bus Stand, and various ‘Rain Baseras’ (Night Shelters).
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Tackling the Cold Wave: With the minimum temperature in Sirsa dropping significantly, reaching near 4°C tonight, the administration aims to ensure that no individual is forced to sleep without protection against the frost.
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Inspection of Night Shelters: During the drive, officials also inspected the local night shelters to ensure that adequate facilities like clean bedding, drinking water, and functional heaters were available. They instructed the caretakers to remain vigilant and accommodate anyone seeking refuge from the cold.
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Public Participation: The administration has also appealed to local NGOs and philanthropists to come forward and contribute to the “Warmth Drive.” Citizens have been encouraged to donate old but usable woolen clothes at designated Red Cross collection centers.
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Official Quote: “As the cold wave intensifies, our priority is to prevent any loss of life due to exposure. We are not just providing blankets but also encouraging people sleeping on the footpaths to move to the government-run night shelters where we have made comprehensive arrangements,” said a senior district official.
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Health Advisory: Alongside the distribution, health department officials provided basic check-ups to those found in the open, specifically looking for symptoms of hypothermia or severe respiratory issues common during the peak winter.
