Ahmedabad: Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has launched a dedicated rescue initiative to help homeless people living in public spaces and shift them to safe, fully equipped shelter homes.Under the initiative, citizens can report homeless individuals taking refuge on footpaths, under bridges, at religious places, bus and railway stations, public parks and other open spaces, by calling AMC’s toll-free grievance helpline, 155303.Following a complaint, officials and personnel from the Urban Community Development (UCD) department will reach out to the individual and shift them safely to the nearest shelter home. AMC has deployed a dedicated rescue vehicle staffed with personnel and security guards, including bouncers, for the operation.At present, 35 shelter homes operate round the clock across the city, with a combined capacity of 4,315 people. The shelters provide free accommodation without discrimination and are equipped with bunk beds, blankets, pillows, drinking water, geysers, cooking and dining utensils, gas connections and fire-safety equipment.AMC has also linked the shelters with nearby anganwadi centres and govt schools to facilitate access to education for residents’ children. Eligible residents are assisted in accessing various govt welfare schemes.The civic body also provides free nutritious dinner every night to all residents of the shelter homes.
