Between November 15 2024 to January 10, 2025, 474 homeless people died in Delhi due to the ‘winter exposure’ and unavailability of essential protective measures such as warm clothing, blankets, or adequate shelter. People living on the streets face numerous health challenges, including respiratory infections, skin ailments, arthritis flare-ups, and deteriorating mental health. Chronic illnesses, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular diseases, worsen due to freezing temperatures, increasing vulnerability to severe complications and even death. Many shelters in the city are unable to meet the demand and those that are available often lack essential facilities like heating and hot water, leaving individuals exposed to the cold. In the absence of adequate shelter, individuals are forced to endure harsh conditions. Night-time temperatures have dropped to as low as 4°C, and the already dangerous air quality, worsened by traffic congestion and dust on the main roads, poses a significant health risk to those sleeping outdoors.
Credit: DW
