Berhampur: A 70-bedded urban shelter home was opened in the Silk city to offer refuge to homeless people. Access to basic necessities like drinking water, sanitation and safety will also be available.
Through a video conference, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik opened the shelter home for the homeless. Situated close-by to Payal Cinema, near new bus stand this is the first of its kind facility in the Silk city.
Constructed at an estimated amount of Rs 40 lakh, at least 70 persons can stay in the building. The Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials are directed to maintain the building.
It will remain open 24*7 for the homeless people. The move by the BMC has been welcomed by the locals.
“This is very helpful for the homeless people, especially during winter seasons. Now, it is chilling at 9 degree Celsius and the destitute and needy need not sleep outside at the bus-stands and railway stations. Now, they will face no problem and at least have a sound sleep at night,” a local said. This will also be helpful for passengers who have buses to catch at nights.
Seven employees have been posted to take care of the shelter home. The building consists of four bedrooms and has comfortable beds with warm blankets.
“The rooms are well-built and look like that of a hotel. This is a good initiative for the helpless people who often have to sleep outside with dogs,” another local said. Everyone including men, women, handicap, beggars, elderly persons and even mentally-challenged people can take shelter in the home.
Phone number of police, ambulance service, fire personnel, city hospital and the shelter home manager have been written in the wall so that anyone in need can contact for help.
“There are all facilities like a hotel. We are trying to add more rooms,” manager Birendra Mitra Nayak said.
It may be noted here that the CM had laid the foundation stone in May 8, 2018.
PNN