Winter preparedness: Bonfires, night shelters arranged in Patna | Patna News – Times of India
Patna: In light of the impending cold wave conditions expected in December and January, Patna district magistrate (DM) Chandrashekhar Singh on Thursday asked the officials concerned to implement the standard operating procedures (SOPs) outlined by the disaster management department to assist the poor and homeless in coping with the extreme weather.
“With the onset of winter, temperatures are dropping and the impact of the cold wave is expected to intensify further. This period adversely affects the poor, helpless and homeless, particularly those in urban and semi-urban areas. Hence, it is the administration’s duty to provide necessary support during such harsh conditions,” said Singh.
The DM added, “Officials must act promptly as per the rules upon receiving news of cold wave conditions in the district. Cold wave warnings issued by the India Meteorological Office should also be circulated among stakeholders to mitigate adverse impacts and prevent loss of lives.” Singh also stressed the importance of inter-departmental coordination to address the situation effectively.
Patna additional district magistrate (disaster management) has been tasked with monitoring the situation. Officials have been asked to organise bonfires at designated public locations to benefit as many people as possible. “Circle officers must submit daily reports on bonfire arrangements in a prescribed format,” Singh said.
Regarding night shelters managed by the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC), the DM said, “A total of 29 night shelters have been arranged, including six permanent, 11 temporary and 12 German Hanger-style shelters. These shelters collectively offer 907 beds — 325 in permanent shelters, 270 in temporary ones and 312 in German Hanger shelters. Additional facilities such as bed sheets, quilts, mosquito nets, toilets, tables and chairs are also provided for those using these shelters. Till Thursday, a total of 6,274 people have availed the night shelter facilities,” Singh said.
“With the onset of winter, temperatures are dropping and the impact of the cold wave is expected to intensify further. This period adversely affects the poor, helpless and homeless, particularly those in urban and semi-urban areas. Hence, it is the administration’s duty to provide necessary support during such harsh conditions,” said Singh.
The DM added, “Officials must act promptly as per the rules upon receiving news of cold wave conditions in the district. Cold wave warnings issued by the India Meteorological Office should also be circulated among stakeholders to mitigate adverse impacts and prevent loss of lives.” Singh also stressed the importance of inter-departmental coordination to address the situation effectively.
Patna additional district magistrate (disaster management) has been tasked with monitoring the situation. Officials have been asked to organise bonfires at designated public locations to benefit as many people as possible. “Circle officers must submit daily reports on bonfire arrangements in a prescribed format,” Singh said.
Regarding night shelters managed by the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC), the DM said, “A total of 29 night shelters have been arranged, including six permanent, 11 temporary and 12 German Hanger-style shelters. These shelters collectively offer 907 beds — 325 in permanent shelters, 270 in temporary ones and 312 in German Hanger shelters. Additional facilities such as bed sheets, quilts, mosquito nets, toilets, tables and chairs are also provided for those using these shelters. Till Thursday, a total of 6,274 people have availed the night shelter facilities,” Singh said.
