Night shelters at Kashmiri Gate hope for homeless during winters

Night shelters run by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) at Kashmiri Gate here are providing a much-needed refuge to homeless people. Each shelter houses around 30 people and offers basic facilities, including three meals a day, RO drinking water, washrooms and clean sleeping space.

The shelters, though modest, are maintained in a fairly good condition, offering a safe place for those who have nowhere else to go.

Ramesh Sharma, caretaker of one of the shelters, said, “We try our best to make everyone feel at home here. Most people come tired and hungry, and our first aim is to ensure they get food, rest and dignity.”

Sonu Kumar, manager who oversees six night shelters across the city, said: “Maintaining all shelters is a constant challenge, but our focus remains on hygiene, food quality and safety. These spaces are not only for sleeping, but also a lifeline for many during harsh weather conditions.” For many residents, these shelters are a small but significant relief from life on the streets. Rafiq, a 64-year-old man staying at the Kashmiri Gate shelter, said, “If this place wasn’t here, I would be sleeping on the footpath. At least, I get food and safety here.”

Ramesh Kumar, another resident at the shelter, said, “It’s like a home and peace for me, and that matters most when you’ve been through tough days.”

The NGO running these shelters continues to provide round-the-clock assistance to ensure that Delhi’s homeless population has access to basic amenities and a safe place to rest.